In a bid to protect school-age children and reduce the burden of preventable diseases, the Plateau State Government has incorporated the prevention of Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs) into its existing school health programme.
The Commissioner for Health disclosed this while speaking on the state’s renewed commitment to strengthening public health interventions, particularly among vulnerable populations. He explained that the initiative is aimed at improving early detection of NTDs, promoting personal hygiene education, and encouraging routine preventive practices in public schools across the state.
According to the commissioner, school-age children remain one of the most affected groups by Neglected Tropical Diseases due to factors such as poor sanitation, unsafe water sources, and limited awareness. By integrating NTD prevention into school health activities, the government hopes to address these risk factors early and prevent long-term health complications.
The programme will focus on key preventive measures, including regular health screenings, hand-washing education, environmental sanitation, and the promotion of safe water practices within school communities. Teachers and school health personnel will be trained to identify early symptoms of common NTDs and refer affected pupils for timely medical attention.
He noted that the initiative also supports improved learning outcomes, as healthier children are more likely to attend school regularly and perform better academically. “Preventing disease among pupils is not only a health issue but also an educational priority,” the commissioner stated.
The integration of NTD prevention into the school health scheme aligns with Plateau State’s broader public health strategy and complements national and global efforts aimed at eliminating Neglected Tropical Diseases. Nigeria remains one of the countries with a high burden of NTDs, which include diseases such as schistosomiasis, lymphatic filariasis, and soil-transmitted helminth infections.
The commissioner further revealed that the state government will collaborate with relevant ministries, development partners, and education authorities to ensure effective and sustainable implementation of the programme. Monitoring and evaluation mechanisms will also be put in place to measure progress and impact across schools statewide.
Parents and community leaders were encouraged to support the initiative by reinforcing hygiene practices at home and participating in community-based sanitation efforts. The government, he assured, remains committed to protecting the health and well-being of children as part of its long-term development goals.
source: gazettengr.com
