By Jeff Kizzilah Digital Editor
The National Parents Association (NPA) has intensified efforts to improve the health and well-being of learners after holding a high-level consultative meeting with the Ministry of Health. The meeting, held on Monday, June 29, at Afya House, brought together NPA National Chairman Mr. Silas David Obuhatsa and Principal Secretary Dr. Oluga Olunya to discuss strategic collaboration on critical school health issues.
The discussions focused on enhancing the health of learners in public basic education institutions through joint initiatives between the Ministry of Health and the National Parents Association.
Among the key priorities agreed upon were the promotion of the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination programme for girls aged 9–14 years, increased awareness and registration under the Social Health Authority (SHA), expansion of mental wellness and psychosocial support services for learners, teachers and parents, and strengthening school health programmes to create safe and healthy learning environments.
The leaders expressed concern that many parents remain inadequately informed about HPV vaccination, SHA registration and mental health services. To address this gap, the Ministry and the NPA resolved to launch nationwide public awareness campaigns aimed at equipping parents and communities with accurate health information.
To formalize the partnership, the NPA announced plans to pursue the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Ministry of Health, creating a structured framework for implementing joint school health programmes across all 47 counties.
Speaking during the meeting, Dr. Oluga Olunya emphasized that education and health are inseparable, noting that healthy learners are better positioned to excel academically.
He reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to supporting the successful implementation of the Competency Based Curriculum (CBC) and ensuring that the Social Health Authority delivers accessible and affordable healthcare for Kenyan families.
The National Parents Association welcomed the Ministry’s commitment and pledged to mobilize parents, schools and communities in support of government initiatives that promote learner welfare, improve school attendance and enhance education outcomes.
The Association reiterated its belief that investing in learner health is fundamental to building a stronger education system and a healthier future for Kenya.
