What all makes KIIT World School, Pitampura, Delhi - A WHO Health Promoting School !!!
To be felicitated at Future of Healthcare Forum, 21st of June 2024
Nominations Open on https://rethinkindia.org/healthpromotingschools
What all makes KIIT World School, Pitampura, Delhi led by Madam Sangeeta Bhatia - A WHO Health Promoting School !!!
Brief Overview of the Healthcare Services Ecosystem Prevalent at the Health Promoting School
At our school, we prioritize Positive Health & Development, fostering a comprehensive healthcare ecosystem that nurtures the physical, emotional, and social well-being of our students. Central to this endeavor is our specialized Health Counsellor cum Educator who engages with students to comprehend their multifaceted needs and conducts workshops and activities aimed at fostering self-awareness, empathy, and responsible decision-making.
Every teacher is trained to create an atmosphere where students take centre stage and their efforts are acknowledged, Happiness curriculum is in place.
In the event of Unintentional Injury, our counselor equips students with strategies to handle such situations effectively, emphasizing prevention and control measures. We also address the nuanced aspects of Violence through seminars, guiding students to recognize and respect personal boundaries, thereby fostering a culture of mutual respect and safety.
Eminent doctors are regularly invited to our campus, and health melas and camps are organized to educate students on Sexual and Reproductive Health, including HIV awareness.
POCSO committee constituted in school raises awareness in students to know their rights and responsibilities related to their body. Our academic calendar integrates activities focused on Communicable Diseases prevention and management, empowering students with essential knowledge for maintaining personal and communal health.
Furthermore, we prioritize holistic health by addressing Non-Communicable Diseases, Sensory Functions, Physical Disabilities, Oral Health, Nutrition, and Physical Activity. Medical professionals are actively involved in imparting guidance and support in these areas. Regular check ups are done in the form of dental camps, body check ups etc. Students' health proformas are maintained to keep a track of their allergies etc.
We are committed to inclusive education, running special committees and clubs like the Inclusive Education Club to ensure that students with special needs are fully integrated into mainstream education. Special weeks dedicated to celebrating the achievements and contributions of differently-abled individuals reinforce our commitment to diversity and inclusivity.
Our school maintains a proactive stance against substance abuse through the No Tobacco Committee, conducting regular audits to uphold a substance-free environment. Both students and staff undergo training to promote mental, physical, and social well-being, fostering a healthy and productive school community.
Ultimately, our overarching goal is to nurture healthy individuals who can contribute positively to society, nation, and the world at large. Through our comprehensive healthcare services ecosystem, we aim to cultivate resilient, empathetic, and responsible citizens who are equipped to thrive in an ever-changing world.
HPS #1. HEALTH PROMOTION INTERVENTIONS
At KIIT World School, our commitment to promoting health awareness extends throughout our curriculum, ensuring that students at all developmental stages receive comprehensive education on personal hygiene, disease prevention, and overall well-being.
For our youngest learners, we prioritize instilling awareness about sun safety and preventive measures against communicable diseases. Through age-appropriate activities and lessons, we teach children the importance of wearing sunscreen, hats, and protective clothing when outdoors. Additionally, we emphasise the significance of handwashing and basic hygiene practices to prevent the spread of illnesses.
As students transition into their teenage years, we place additional emphasis on hygiene and precautionary measures, recognising the importance of this pivotal stage of their lives. Our curriculum integrates teachings on the benefits of yoga and meditation to manage stress and negative energy, promoting a holistic approach to mental, emotional, and physical health.
Our dedicated team of educators, including special educators and counselors, collaborates with teachers to integrate health literacy into various clubs such as the Health and Wellness Club, Sports Club, and Culinary Club. We organize experiential learning activities and practical demonstrations to reinforce concepts related to personal hygiene and oral health care.
Special events like Global Handwashing Day are celebrated to underscore the importance of reduced consumption of sugary beverages, increased physical activity, and responsible use of electronic devices. These messages are reinforced through morning assemblies and club activities.
Furthermore, we prioritize menstrual hygiene management and collaborate with the community through outreach programs and workshops hosted by eminent doctors and professionals. We also engage parents through frequent Open Houses and Health Melas, recognizing their crucial role in shaping their children's health behaviors and habits.
In addition to dietary habits, we emphasize the importance of adequate sleep and its role in rejuvenation. Post-pandemic, we address the impact of prolonged exposure to social media on students' social skills and mental health. Through open dialogues and emotional support, we aim to foster stronger family bonds and limit excessive use of electronic devices.
Overall, our comprehensive approach to health education extends beyond the classroom, fostering a culture of wellness that empowers students to make informed decisions about their health and happiness. At K-IIT World School, we believe in equipping students with the tools they need to lead healthy, fulfilling lives independently.
HPS #2. HEALTH EDUCATION INITIATIVES
At KIIT School, we are dedicated to promoting health education through a variety of initiatives aimed at nurturing healthy lifestyles among our students.
Nutrition Education: We prioritize nutrition education by carefully curating our meal menu to exclude foods high in oil and sugar. Students are required to bring fruits to school, and junk or processed foods are strictly prohibited. To further encourage nutritious eating habits, we organize events like Health Melas and Master Chef competitions focusing on cooking without oil and sugar. Additionally, we celebrate World Nutrition Day by donating food items and holding competitions such as Master Chef on campus to promote nutritious eating habits. We also promote sustainability by using steel utensils instead of plastic or melamine.
Physical Activity: Physical activity is integrated into our students' daily routines through compulsory participation in outdoor games during morning assembly hours and sports periods. Moreover, teachers are required to incorporate field activities and sports into their subject curriculum to connect education with physical activity effectively.
Sexual and Reproductive Health Education: Recognizing the hormonal changes that occur as students enter their teenage years, we conduct frequent workshops and counseling sessions to educate them about gender sensitization and body positivity. We aim to create a supportive environment where students feel empowered to accept and embrace their changing bodies.
Support for Health-Promoting Curriculum: We provide comprehensive support for curriculum-based health education, including sexuality education and nutrition and physical activity education.
Prevention of Unintentional Injuries: We educate students on how to prevent common unintentional injuries both at home and while engaging in sports or outdoor activities. First aid lessons are given right from the time they are in lower grades and professionals are invited over to give them lessons in higher forms of First Aid. Exposure of students to identification of potential hazards is done so as to help them prevent injury.
Prevention of Violence: We prioritize preventing various forms of violence, including intimate partner violence, sexual violence, gender-based violence, bullying, and gang violence. We provide universal information on preventing violence and abuse, fostering a safe and inclusive school environment.
By incorporating these initiatives into our school curriculum, we strive to empower our students with the knowledge and skills they need to lead healthy, fulfilling lives while promoting a culture of wellness and safety within our school community.
HPS #3. Health SCREENING leading to CARE and/or REFERRAL & SUPPORT as Appropriate
At K-IIT School, we have implemented a comprehensive screening system to ensure the well-being of our students across various dimensions of health. Screening for Infectious Diseases: We have established protocols for screening infectious diseases. Special sessions are organised to apprise students about water borne, air borne and diseases that are contagious.
Messages are shot out to parents to as to how to protect children at home too. Students are issued advisories wrt clothing so as to prevent the same. Special precautions were taken for COVID screening and the same is now too a part of School Safety Audit compliance. During monsoon when the chances of outbreak of diseases is high, children are aligned to taking precautions so as to prevent the same. Through regular health assessments and monitoring, we aim to detect and address potential outbreaks promptly.
Screening for Mental Health Concerns: Our screening program identifies students at risk of poor mental health outcomes or in need of monitoring or referral. By conducting routine assessments such as MLL (Minimal Level of Learning) , gap analysis, and providing necessary support, we prioritize the mental well-being of our students.
Compliance with School Entry Health Requirements: We assess and ensure compliance with school entry health requirements, including medical history, comprehensive physical examinations, and immunizations. Special records are maintained student wise in the form of Health Proformas to be aware of any illness or allergy etc that the child may be suffering from.This also ensures that all students meet the necessary health standards for enrollment.
Routine Preventive Health Check-Ups: At the beginning of each school year and at regular intervals, we conduct routine preventive health check-ups. These assessments evaluate physical growth, motor development, social and emotional maturity, as well as identifying any feeding or sleep-related issues. We adhere to WHO criteria for screening programs to ensure effectiveness.
Screening for Eye and Vision Problems: We conduct screenings to detect any eye or vision problems early on, ensuring timely intervention and appropriate care for our students.
Screening for Ear and Hearing Problems: Our screening program includes assessments for ear and hearing problems, allowing us to identify any issues that may impact students' learning or overall well-being.
Screening for Oral Health Problems: We prioritize oral health by conducting screenings to identify any oral health problems, such as cavities or gum disease, and provide appropriate interventions or referrals.
Screening for Nutrition Problems: Our screening efforts extend to nutrition, where we assess for issues such as anemia, malnutrition, or obesity. By identifying nutritional concerns early, we can implement targeted interventions to support students' overall health and development.
Overall, our screening system reflects our commitment to promoting comprehensive health and well-being among our students, ensuring they have the support they need to thrive academically, socially, and physically.
HPS #4. Preventive Interventions
At K-IIT, preventive interventions are carried out systematically to ensure the health and well-being of the community, particularly focusing on children. The administration of various interventions is meticulously executed, addressing different health risks prevalent in the region:
Administration of Immunizations for Specific Regional Risks: K-IIT implements targeted immunization programs recommended for children residing in specific areas. The health performas issued to students have several categories encompassing the detailed record of the vaccinations and the Health instructor keeps a proper track that those are done. By ensuring that vaccination is done of children against these diseases, the institution effectively reduces the risk of outbreaks and protects the health of the community.
Mass Drug Administration (MDA) Programs: Our school in compliance with the government norms administers drugs prescribed by them . For instance deworming tablets are administered periodically to prevent the infestation by worms after giving proper guidelines and taking appropriate precautions.Through these campaigns, K-IIT ensures widespread distribution and administration of medications to prevent the spread of these diseases, particularly among vulnerable populations.
Supplementation of Iron, Folic Acid, and Micronutrients: Recognizing the importance of nutrition in child health, K-IIT implements programs for apprising students about supplementation of essential micronutrients like iron and folic acid. By conducting workshops by eminent Health and Medical experts, the institution addresses deficiencies that could affect child development and overall health.
Routine Immunization Administration: K-IIT follows a check on comprehensive immunization schedule for all children, covering vaccinations against diseases such as Diptheria, Tetanus, Pertussis, Hepatitis B, Human Papillomavirus (for females), Measles, and Rubella. Through regular vaccination drives, the institution ensures that children are protected against preventable diseases, contributing to overall community health.
Immunizations for High-Risk Populations: In addition to routine immunization, K-IIT also focuses on importance of administration of vaccinations against diseases such as Cholera, Dengue, Hepatitis A, Meningococcal disease, Rabies, and Typhoid to high-risk populations, thereby addressing specific health challenges prevalent in certain demographics, effectively reducing the incidence and impact of these diseases.
Overall, through a combination of targeted immunization programs, mass drug administration, nutritional supplementation, and routine vaccination drives, K-IIT demonstrates a proactive approach to preventive healthcare, safeguarding the health of children and the wider community.
HPS #5. Clinical Assessments
At KIIT, the status of clinical assessments is exemplary, demonstrating a commitment to comprehensive healthcare delivery and patient wellbeing. Here's how the institution excels in this aspect based on specific pointers.
Comprehensive Health Screenings: KIIT conducts thorough clinical assessments encompassing a wide range of health indicators. This includes routine physical examinations, vital sign assessments, and screenings for various health conditions. By adopting a comprehensive approach, KIIT ensures early detection and intervention for potential health issues, promoting preventive care and proactive management.
State-of-the-Art Medical Facilities: Our institution has a tie up with Max Hospital, Delhi . Fully trained medical professional is there for the entire day who caters to the needs of students at all times enhancing overall healthcare outcomes.
Multidisciplinary Care Teams: KIIT fosters a collaborative environment with multidisciplinary care teams comprising physicians, nurses, specialists, and allied healthcare professionals conduct workshops and guide students on how to map their body-mass index, oral care, importance of healthy diet to name a few to ensure comprehensive evaluations and personalized care for students.
Regular Health Monitoring and Follow-up: The institution prioritizes regular health monitoring and follow-up assessments for patients across various medical conditions. This proactive approach enables ongoing evaluation of treatment efficacy, disease progression, and overall student well-being. Through consistent follow-up, KIIT maintains continuity of care and addresses evolving healthcare needs effectively.
Community Outreach Programmes: KIIT organises and conducts several outreach programmes for the residents of other communities in addition to the students and their parents such as Blood Donation, Cancer Screening, Thalassaemia Screening, Obesity , Eye check up, Vaccinations. This approach emphasizes active parent and community involvement, shared decision-making, and respect for community preferences and values. By prioritizing the community's perspective , KIIT ensures that clinical assessments are tailored to meet the unique needs and concerns of not only one but several individuals.
In summary, KIIT demonstrates excellence in clinical assessments through its commitment to comprehensive screenings, collaboration among multidisciplinary care teams, emphasis on regular health monitoring and follow-up, and adherence to a child as well as community-centered care philosophy. These efforts collectively contribute to the institution's reputation for providing high-quality healthcare services and promoting optimal outcomes.
HPS #6. Health Services Management
At KIIT, health management is meticulously executed, incorporating various strategies to ensure the well-being of the school population. Here's how the institution effectively manages health, addressing each of the provided pointers.
Collection, Analysis, and Use of Data on School Health Service Utilization and Quality of Care: KIIT places great emphasis on collecting, analyzing, and utilizing data related to school health service utilization and quality of care. Through systematic data collection methods the institution monitors performance indicators and evaluates the effectiveness of health services. This information guides quality improvement efforts, ensuring that health services are delivered efficiently and meet the highest standards of care.
Implementation of and Support for a Health-Facility Risk Management Plan Linked with Primary, Secondary, and Tertiary Care Systems: KIIT implements and supports a comprehensive health-facility risk management plan. This plan outlines protocols for school health services to provide essential care during complex emergencies, such as natural disasters or disease outbreaks. By establishing clear guidelines and coordination mechanisms, KIIT ensures a timely and effective response to health crises, safeguarding the well-being of students and staff.
Management of Infectious Disease Outbreaks in School: KIIT demonstrates proactive management of infectious disease outbreaks within the school environment. Through robust surveillance systems, suspected outbreaks are promptly reported to health authorities, triggering rapid response measures. KIIT follows established protocols for isolation, quarantine, and disease control, effectively containing the spread of infectious diseases such as cholera, conjunctivitis, coronavirus, dysentery, hand-foot-and-mouth disease, influenza, meningococcal disease, rubella, scabies, scarlet fever, tuberculosis, typhoid, and varicella. By prioritizing prevention and containment measures, KIIT minimizes disruptions to education and protects the health of the school community.
In summary, KIIT's health management approach encompasses data driven planning, quality improvement efforts, integration with broader healthcare systems, and proactive measures to address infectious disease outbreaks. Through these strategies, the institution ensures a safe and supportive environment conducive to the well-being and academic success of its students and staff.
HPS #7. Support for Other Pillars of a Health Promoting School
At KIIT, support for other pillars in our school is integral to ensuring the holistic well-being of our students and staff. Here's how we provide referral and support for child carers and uphold various school policies related to health promotion.
Referral and Support for Child Carers: KIIT recognizes the invaluable contribution of students who provide unpaid support to parents in need through community outreach programmes. Our school counselors provide guidance and assistance, ensuring that student carers receive the help they need to manage their responsibilities while maintaining their academic progress and well-being.
Training School Staff on First Aid, Hygiene Promotion, etc.: KIIT prioritizes the safety and health of our school community by providing comprehensive training to school staff. This includes first aid training to respond effectively to medical emergencies, as well as hygiene promotion sessions to foster a clean and healthy environment. By equipping staff with essential skills and knowledge, we enhance the overall safety and well-being of students and staff members.
Support for School Policies on General Health Promotion: Our school actively supports policies aimed at promoting general health, including those addressing chronic conditions, hygiene, and nutrition. Through education, awareness campaigns, and policy implementation, KIIT fosters a culture of health and wellness within the school community. We collaborate with health professionals and stakeholders to ensure that our policies align with best practices and prioritize the health needs of our students and staff.
Support for School Policies on Mental Health Promotion: Mental health is a priority at KIIT. Through the Inclusive approach, we provide robust support for policies promoting mental well-being. Our school offers precounseling sessions to students experiencing emotional distress or mental health challenges. Peer educators also conduct workshops to guide them on gender sensitivity, gender differences, conflicts between parents and students etc. Happiness Curriculum helps infuse positive vibes amongst kids. The school provides confidential support and guidance, empowering students to seek help and access appropriate resources for mental health support.
Support for School Policies on Risk Reduction and Disease/Injury Prevention: KIIT actively supports policies aimed at reducing risks and preventing diseases and injuries among students. We implement preventive measures such as adolescence care and sex education programs, anti-violence initiatives, and substance abuse prevention campaigns. By fostering a safe and supportive school environment, we promote the physical and emotional well-being of our students.
Support for School Policies Addressing Bullying & Harassment: Our school has zero tolerance for bullying and harassment and fully supports policies aimed at addressing these issues. We prioritize creating a respectful and inclusive school culture where all students feel safe and supported. Through education, intervention, and enforcement of anti-bullying policies, we strive to prevent and address instances of bullying and harassment effectively.
We support policies that ensure staff members are trained in recognizing and responding to allergic reactions promptly.
Support for Other Aspects of a Health-Promoting School: In addition to the above policies, KIIT provides support for various other aspects of a health-promoting school. This includes ensuring the nutritional content of school feeding programs, conducting regular inspections of food safety, and engaging with the community to promote a healthy school environment. By involving stakeholders and fostering partnerships, we create a supportive ecosystem that prioritizes the health and well-being of our school community.
Inspection of the Physical Environment of the School: KIIT conducts regular inspections of the school's physical environment in the form of Safety audits done by external people to prevent injuries and promote health and hygiene. We prioritize the maintenance of water, sanitation, and hygiene facilities to ensure a safe and clean environment for students and staff. By addressing potential hazards and implementing preventive measures, we create a conducive learning environment that supports the overall well-being of our school community.
In summary, at KIIT, we provide comprehensive support for various aspects of health promotion and safety within the school setting. Through proactive measures, policy support, and collaborative efforts, we strive to create a nurturing environment that prioritizes the health and well-being of our students, staff, and community.
Nominations Open on https://rethinkindia.org/healthpromotingschools