A comprehensive workshop on implementing healthy canteens was recently conducted on 5th October 2024 for school teachers and canteen staff from schools operating under the Jaffna Municipal Council. This event was organised by the Jaffna Healthy City and Department of Community and Family Medicine and facilitated by the 44th batch of medical students at the Boardroom of Faculty of Medicine, University of Jaffna. The primary objective of the workshop was to raise awareness among participants about the importance of promoting healthy eating habits within school environments, with a focus on distinguishing between healthy and unhealthy foods, understanding the concept of a balanced diet, and adopting safety measures essential for maintaining a healthy canteen.
The workshop provided practical knowledge and strategies for creating nutritious meal options for students, fostering an environment conducive to better health and well-being. It also addressed the critical role schools play in shaping the dietary habits of young people and emphasised the long-term benefits of proper nutrition on physical and cognitive development.
The School Medical Officer of Jaffna graced the event with his active participation, offering valuable insights, guidance, and recommendations. His contributions were instrumental in reinforcing the workshop’s key messages and providing practical solutions for ensuring the success of healthy canteen initiatives in schools. The event marked a significant step towards improving school food standards and promoting healthier lifestyles among the student population within the Jaffna Municipal Council area.
