Jun 10, 2008 - 2008 Mass Deworming Programme For Primary School Children
Worm infection has been identified as one of the major health challenges to the growth and general development of our children. It is established that unlike other parasites, the body system does not have the natural means of combating worms without treatment.
Mass deworming programme, the 2008 edition of which we are gathered here today to flag off, was initiated by the State Government to keep all our children safe from worm parasites and its effects such as severe anaemia, malnutrition, stunted growth and low immunity among others. The most important evidence of worm in children is that they will not develop to their full ability which limits their learning capability. This is a serious consequence that cannot be ignored because good academic performance will to a great extent determine the future of a child.
The commitment of the government of Lagos State to this programme which I am informed will cover a total of two hundred and fifty eight thousand six hundred children from the State primary schools in this first round clearly demonstrates the importance attached to the survival, growth and development of every child irrespective of social background. Our main responsibility as parents, teachers and other stakeholders is to ensure that no eligible child is left out.
It is very important to use this opportunity to remind ourselves of the need to maintain a clean environment because it is a simple and effective way of preventing worms and living a healthy life. Although it is true that children are prone to infection as a result of their hand to mouth habit, I believe this can be controlled with proper education and training on personal hygiene. Parents and teachers have a shared responsibility to educate children on healthy habits such as regular hand washing. This I believe is one of the ways we can effectively prevent worm infection and its results on our children and the society.
Distinguished ladies and gentlemen, I urge every one of us to play our role as expected in the proper upbringing of our future leaders in a clean and healthy environment both at home and at school. Together we must win the fight against worm infection and other childhood diseases.
I commend the efforts of the leadership and staff of the Ministry of women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation as well as other stakeholders that are collaborating with the State Government to ensure that our children are safe from worms.
It is now my pleasure to flag off this first round of Mass Deworming exercise to the glory of God and to the healthy growth and development of our children.
God bless you all.
Her Excellency
Mrs. Abimbola Fashola
First Lady of Lagos State