By Esther Olaoluwa |
The Lagos State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to promoting the health and well-being of students through its Quarterly School Health Programme, describing good health as essential to academic success and the overall development of young people. 
The commitment was reiterated during the latest edition of the programme held at Falomo High School, Ikoyi, where students received free health screenings and health education aimed at encouraging healthy living and the early detection of health challenges.
Government Prioritises Students’ Health
Speaking at the outreach, the Permanent Secretary, Health District III, Dr. Monsurat Adeleke, said the state government remains committed to ensuring that every student grows into a healthy and productive adult capable of contributing positively to the development of Lagos State and Nigeria.
She explained that the Quarterly School Health Programme is designed to identify health issues at an early stage and provide interventions that will help students remain healthy and perform at their best academically.
According to Adeleke, students’ education and health are equally important, noting that healthy children are better positioned to achieve their educational goals.
“This outreach is not just about checking students’ eyes, teeth or general health. It is about helping them stay healthy so they can pursue their dreams and become responsible citizens,” she said.
Programme Promotes Preventive Healthcare
The Permanent Secretary described the initiative as a free healthcare programme implemented every quarter in schools across the state to promote healthy living among students.
She clarified that the outreach is not a vaccination exercise, adding that teachers also benefit from the programme because maintaining the health of both students and educators contributes to building a healthier society.
Adeleke encouraged students to speak with their parents, teachers, guidance counsellors or healthcare workers whenever they encounter health or personal challenges.
She also advised them to avoid drug abuse and adopt healthy lifestyle habits, including eating nutritious meals, consuming fruits and vegetables, drinking enough water, brushing their teeth twice daily, participating in physical activities and getting adequate sleep.
The Permanent Secretary urged students to cooperate with healthcare workers during the health screening, ask questions where necessary and follow professional medical advice, stressing that healthy living begins with personal responsibility.
School Commends Government Initiative
The Principal of Falomo Senior High School, Mr. Paul Omo-Aibangbee, commended the Lagos State Government for providing free healthcare services to students.
He noted that some students experience vision and dental challenges that may go unnoticed without regular health screenings and described the outreach as a valuable intervention.
Omo-Aibangbee also appealed to parents to encourage their children to take advantage of such programmes whenever they are organised.
Students Seek Continuity
Speaking on behalf of the students, Miss Asmawu Usman, an SSS 2 student of Falomo Senior High School, expressed appreciation to the Lagos State Government for organising the free medical outreach.
She said the initiative had given students access to important healthcare services and appealed to the government to sustain the programme and extend it to more schools across the state.
The Quarterly School Health Programme forms part of the Lagos State Government’s efforts to promote preventive healthcare, improve students’ well-being and create a healthier learning environment for learners across the state.
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