DHARAMSHALA: The Department of Health, Central Tibetan Administration today began a three-day ‘School Health Workshop cum Substance Abuse Review Meeting’ at the LTWA hall. More than 27 participants including two school rectors, from Tibetan schools across India are taking part in the program.
Speaking at the inaugural, Health Kalon Dr Tsering Wangchuk said the aim of this workshop is to provide capacity building for Tibetan health personnels. Capable and informed personnels who can counsel children effectively is very important to boost the general health of our children. Without a proper physical and mental health, students would not be able to focus on their education, he said.
He noted several important habits to be practised in schools to improve the over all health of children. He also recommended the establishment of health clubs and committees in schools, and encouraged a conducive environment for open discussions on sexual health education.
Kalon Tsering Wangchuk deplored the use of abusive substances and tobacco by children in schools. Children needs to be advised about the ill effects of these substances, he said.
He also talked about the importance of a nutritious diet for children. Speaking about bullying in schools, he said that bullying can have an adverse effect on a child’s mental health. Therefore, he urged the school authorities to take extra attention towards such practices in schools.
Health Secretary Sonam Choephel Shosur talked about the over all importance of health in a society.
The Health department launched a booklet ‘Rewa’ to promote a healthy lifestyle and emphasise the importance of positive outlook towards life.
The three-day program will discuss topics like ‘Holistic Development Among Children’, ‘Mental Health’, ‘Tibetan Healthcare (Sowa Rigpa)’, ‘Sexual Health’, ‘Alcohol and Drug Abuse’, ‘Prevention of HIV/AIDS, TB and other Communicable Diseases’, etc.
Speakers include Dr Tseten Sadhutsang, personal physician of His Holiness the Dalai Lama, Geshe Lhakdor, director of Tibetan Works and Archives, and Dr Tsewang Tamdin of Men-Tsee Khang. The program also include a talk by Tenzin Choegyal, a former drug addict who will detail his personal experience of dealing with drug addiction.
