While Weqaya focuses on the health of adults, a "healthy schools" programme is in its pilot phase. With the support of the Sheikha Salama bint Hamdan Al Nahyan Foundation and in collaboration with the Abu Dhabi Education Council, primary school classes from three Abu Dhabi schools are involved in the 10-week pilot. The scheme aims to improve fitness, reduce obesity and boost self-esteem and emotional well-being.
Each child will undergo a health assessment, including the testing of blood sugar levels, heart fitness and agility. The nutritional value of their lunches will be assessed, and they will take part in an exercise programme. The scheme will be expanded to additional schools in September. Sheikha Salama bint Hamdan Al Nahyan, the wife of Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed, the Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and the Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces, visited Al Badoor school in Abu Dhabi yesterday with her daughter Sheikha Mariam bint Mohammed Al Nahyan to view the programme's progress.
