The KHDA and DHA sign an MoU to update policies, standards, guidelines, and specific directives for health-related aspects in schools on a periodic basis 

Dubai, Jan 31, 2024: The Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA) and Dubai Health Authority (DHA) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to enhance the health and well-being of students, staff and parents across private schools in Dubai.

The MoU signed at the ongoing Arab Health Congress and Exhibition by Aisha Abdulla Miran, Director General of the KHDA in Dubai and Awadh Seghayer Al Ketbi, Director General of the DHA, encompasses updating policies, standards, guidelines and specific directives for health-related aspects in schools on a periodic basis. The focus is also on implementation of initiatives related to healthy lifestyles, including physical activity and healthy nutrition choices.

Furthermore, the memorandum stipulates the supervision of the DHA in health-related matters such as health of students in private schools, implementation of specialised programmes including school clinics, training of healthcare personnel such as doctors and nurses in school health programmes, especially the regular health screening programmes, early detection of chronic diseases and vaccinations as well as collaboration in the field of school health research.

Additionally, the memorandum also focuses on providing health and psychological support for students with special needs in specialised centres and educational facilities in general. 

Al Ketbi, highlights that the MoU is comprehensive and includes the well-being of students including those with special needs, school staff and parents. He emphasised that this inclusivity supports the existence of a healthy and happy school community. 

The agreement covers nine areas of support in the disease prevention system and the commitment of both parties to address any potential emergency health cases.

Miran states that the MoU ensures an emergency response to provide necessary support to students at all times and under all circumstances.