The School Health Conference concluded yesterday as part of the Future of Healthcare Summit 2024, with over 400 participants representing 200 schools from the United Arab Emirates. This event addressed the challenges related to school vaccination programs to enhance health awareness among students and parents. This conference, the first edition of this unique event, aims to promote the health and well-being of children in schools through collaboration, education, and innovative practices.

The conference, organized by the Dubai Health Authority, covered vital topics, including student health, mental health, nutrition, preventive care, and emergency preparedness in schools. The event aimed to empower schools with the knowledge and tools needed to create a healthy, safe, and supportive environment for students.

Dr. Wafi Daoud, Executive Director of Strategy and Planning at the Knowledge and Human Development Authority in Dubai, emphasized the importance of promoting healthy lifestyles for students and enhancing their quality of life throughout their educational journey. He referenced the success of the Dubai Fitness Challenge, which coincides with the conference and encourages students and families of all ages to engage in 30 minutes of daily physical activity for 30 days.

Dr. Wafi Daoud stated, “When our children thrive—physically, emotionally, and psychologically—our community and city also thrive.” The quality of life of Dubai's students is an essential part of Dubai’s education strategy (E33) and its initiatives for change in the coming years.

The conference also discussed preventive healthcare strategies and early interventions for common student issues, with new topics highlighting nutrition, physical fitness, preventive healthcare, managing mental health challenges, and emotional resilience. Updates on vaccinations, hygiene practices, monitoring of common illnesses, and emergency and crisis management protocols for schools were also presented.

The Future of Healthcare Summit 2024, organized by INDEX Conferences and Exhibitions, part of INDEX Holding, is supported by the Dubai Health Authority, the Global Alliance for Vaccines (GAVI), the Emirates Public Health Association, and several other international organizations.