Improving Vietnamese Health: The Path to Better Nutrition and Physical Activity
A recent article in Thanhnien newspaper highlights Vietnam’s ongoing efforts to improve the health and physical development of its citizens, particularly students, through enhanced nutrition and increased physical activity. While progress has been made, notable challenges remain in ensuring effective implementation of school meal programs.
the initiative focuses on improving nutritional intake alongside promoting physical activity, recognized as key factors in achieving optimal height and overall health for vietnamese people. The approach has seen positive results in schools, leading to improved association and management of school nutrition programs, alongside strengthened facilities and equipment dedicated to nutrition, physical education, and sports. These changes have fostered a positive shift in students’ perceptions, eating habits, and engagement in physical activities.
On the strength of these results, the Ministry of Education and Training issued a decision approving the “vietnamese students’ proper nutrition and school meal models to promote physical activity” on an unspecified date. This decision aims to empower local governments to adapt and implement these models based on their specific regional needs.
However,the article details several obstacles hindering the widespread success of the school meal program. A primary concern is the lack of adequate facilities and trained personnel. Some schools are still relying on pre-packaged,industrial meals,and a scientifically sound,balanced diet plan hasn’t been universally adopted. This is particularly acute in vulnerable areas where school meal budgets are insufficient to support nutritious meal development. Furthermore, effective collaboration between schools and families to ensure children receive a balanced diet is lacking in some instances.
The article points to deficiencies in school infrastructure, with many facilities failing to meet nutritional requirements. A shortage of qualified nutrition professionals, coupled with outdated equipment and limited space for sports and physical activities, further complicates the situation.
To address these issues, the Ministry of Education and Training is collaborating with the Ministry of health to raise awareness among teachers, parents, and students. They are also emphasizing the importance of fulfilling the Prime Minister’s directives regarding appropriate nutrition and physical activity to improve health and prevent non-communicable diseases.
Future steps include a review and revision of the legal framework surrounding school meals and student nutrition. The Ministry plans to expand resource mobilization from domestic and international organizations, and strengthen inspection and supervision of school meals to guarantee food safety.
source: https://thanhnien.vn/Bao-tam-TAM-NGUC-NGUOI-NGUOI-NAM-DUOC-CAI-CAI-CAI-CAI-HOA-HOC-Duong-Chua-Chua-Angon-18523982382466.htm
