15-05-2025
QU campaign promotes nutrition awareness among schoolchildren
Tribune News Network
Doha
The Department of Nutrition Sciences (DNS) at the College of Health Sciences (CHS), part of QU Health at Qatar University (QU), continues the success of its Smart Start campaign.
This time reaching young learners at Lycée Voltaire School—West Bay, the ongoing nutrition education initiative aims to promote healthy eating habits and an active lifestyle among primary school students across Qatar.
Smart Start addresses the growing concern over childhood obesity and long-term health risks by equipping children with the knowledge and skills needed to make better food and lifestyle choices.
The programme reflects Qatar Vision 2030 by investing in early prevention and fostering a culture of health and well-being.
At Lycée Voltaire, over 100 enthusiastic Grade 3 students participated in interactive activities led by QU's nutrition and dietetics students. The sessions focused on key areas such as recognising food groups through the MyPlate model, understanding the dangers of excessive sugar consumption, and creating nutritious lunchboxes.
Children also engaged in physical games that emphasised the importance of daily movement for growth and development.
'The children were highly engaged and eager to participate,' said Aljazi, lecturer in the Department of Nutrition Sciences at QU and Smart Start coordinator. 'We value our collaboration with schools like Lycée Voltaire, who open their doors to innovative, educational health outreach programmes like ours.'
The Smart Start programme continues to grow its footprint throughout Qatar, empowering schoolchildren to take ownership of their health from a young age.
Dr. Maya Bassil, head of the Department of Nutrition Sciences at QU, stated, 'Our campaign continues to highlight the value of prevention. By reaching children early, we aim to nurture a future generation that embraces nutritious food and active living.'
