With an obesity rate of at least 40% in secondary schools according to recent research, schools are being urged to follow the Canteen Guideline implemented by the Ministry of Health in 2007.
Research also shows that at least 55% of students buy morning snacks from their canteen.
Ministry of Educations Health Promoting Officer, Tikiko Lewesi said with the majority of schools having their canteen as a major source of income, following of these guidelines becomes a dilemma for them.
Lewesi added that while the onus is on teachers to monitor and control the types food being sold in canteens, there is another reason why some schools do not follow the guidelines.
He added schools that are more concerned with making money from their canteens at the expense of their students should seriously rethink their moral values.
Story by: William Waqavakatoga
Schools urged to follow Canteen Guideline to lower obesity
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