One School One Nurse Program Benefiting Students in Bardghat
The One School, One Nurse program in the community secondary schools of Bardghat Municipality, West Nawalparasi, has been showing positive results. This initiative has been providing relief to both students and parents.
Basic health issues like fever, cough, stomachache, or minor injuries are treated within the school premises. It has been reported that most students recover after receiving medicine from the school nurse. In more serious cases, parents are informed and students are referred to hospitals.
According to Mayor Shambhulal Shrestha, nurses not only provide treatment but also offer emotional support to students. This has reassured parents that their children are safe at school.
Girls Benefiting from Health Support Facilities
With the appointment of school nurses, female students have been able to discuss their health issues openly. Availability of sanitary pads and a separate restroom during menstruation is believed to have reduced absenteeism among girls.
Health Awareness Education by Nurses
Beyond treatment, nurses are also educating students on preventive measures to avoid illness. This has contributed to improved health awareness among students.
Feedback from School Administration
Binod Khanal, Principal of Shanti Nikunja Secondary School in Bardghat-5, shared that having a nurse on campus has made things significantly easier for students. Health checkups are also conducted during off-hours when necessary. According to him, students have been receiving information on hygiene and health through school nurses.
Impact and Current Staffing
This initiative has helped increase health consciousness among students. Currently, nurses are deployed to secondary-level schools every 15 days. Two nurses have been arranged through local resources, and an additional nurse has been requested.
Prakash Khanal, Chief Administrative Officer of Bardghat Municipality, informed that the program has not only improved access to healthcare for students but also positively influenced their school attendance and hygiene practices.
Nawalparasi