Young people from Transnistria say “Yes!” to healthy eating and more physical activity

16 February 2019

To mobilize all schools and communities to undertake concrete actions that support the adoption of a healthy diet and active lifestyle, WHO in collaboration with local health specialists introduced school lessons to educate young people in these areas. The lively, interactive 1-hour sessions are being conducted in all schools on the left bank of the Dniester River.

On 5 December 2018, students from School No. 1 in Parcani were the first to receive the special lesson about physical activity; reduction of fat, salt and sugar consumption; and the negative influence of smoking and alcohol on health.

WHO/A. Marchenko

Young people from Transnistria... 1

On 5 December 2018, students from School No. 1 in Parcani were the first to receive the special lesson about physical activity; reduction of fat, salt and sugar consumption; and the negative influence of smoking and alcohol on health.

WHO/A. Marchenko

Young people from Transnistria... 2

Young people presented their thoughts through posters on healthy eating, physical activity, and the health impacts of smoking and the harmful use of alcohol.

WHO/A. Marchenko

Young people from Transnistria... 3

Additionally, the students participated in a culinary master class, preparing affordable salad made with vegetables.

WHO/A. Marchenko

Young people from Transnistria... 4

“I’m happy to learn more about nutrition and healthy eating,” 15-year-old Maria Grebinnaia said enthusiastically. “I will share my new cooking experience with my parents”.

WHO/A. Marchenko

Young people from Transnistria... 5

To support the school lessons, WHO and local specialists developed a colourful, original information package using friendly and accessible language. It includes brochures for pupils in grades 1–4 and 5–11, and a set of colourful bookmarks depicting a healthy plate of food as well as the importance of drinking water and engaging in physical activity. The package also includes an extended guide for teachers on how to conduct the lesson.

WHO/A. Marchenko

Young people from Transnistria... 6

“The role of WHO and health-care and education institutions is to support the development of healthy habits in adolescents and to protect them from risks for a longer, healthier and more productive life,” stressed Stela Gheorghita, Coordinator of the WHO Health Emergencies Programme at the WHO Country Office in the Republic of Moldova.

WHO/A. Marchenko

Young people from Transnistria... 7

This first step in the joint activities of WHO and local health and education specialists aims to promote the understanding of healthy habits, to engage young people to adopt a healthy lifestyle, and to address the main risk factors of noncommunicable diseases.

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