Sweet drinks banned in schools

This was disclosed on Monday by the Ministry of Education’s chief executive officer Harrilal Seecharan.

He said the ministry recognises reasonable time should be afforded to enable concessionaires to abide by the decision of Cabinet and, as such, a phased approach is recommended whereby all cafeterias/canteens must be in compliance no later than September.

“School supervisors and principals are therefore requested to bring this to the attention of all personnel involved in the sale or serving of drinks to students in schools including operators of cafeterias/canteens.

School supervisors and principals are also asked to note that they are required to monitor this policy to ensure compliance in all schools.” Seecharan said as part of the strategic framework to reduce the burden of non-communicable diseases, and to address the epidemic of childhood obesity, the ministry in collaboration with the Ministry of Health will be introducing a number of measures.

When contacted, president of the National Parents Teachers Association, Zena Ramatali said they support the Ministry of Health’s initiative and have been reaching out to parents to engage their children in drinking more water and eating healthier.