Pupils schooled on nutrition

THE DEPARTMENT of Basic Education (DBE) and Nestlé closed off the celebrations of the National Nutrition and Obesity Week (NNOW) at Blaauwskop Intermediate School in Kanoneiland, Upington, yesterday.

The theme this year for NNOW was: “Breakfast – the best way to start your day”.

Northern Cape Department of Education spokesperson, Geoffrey van der Merwe, said yesterday that Nutrition Week was celebrated annually from October 9 to 15 and National Obesity Week from October 15 to 19. This year, the events were celebrated with schools in the ZF Mgcawu district.

“The aim of the two campaigns is to create awareness about the importance of a healthy lifestyle, eating patterns and to control body weight through exercising,” Van der Merwe said.

He added that the pupils from schools in the ZF Mgcawu district were made aware during the campaign of the importance of having breakfast every day and ensuring at least eight hours of sleep per night.

“A total of 300 pupils from Blaauwskop Intermediate School, Soverby Primary School, Keimoes Roman Catholic Mission School and McTaggartskamp participated in various sports activities, including soccer, rugby, hockey and indigenous games,” Van der Merwe said.

“Pupils also took part in a cooking competition while there were also performances by pupils on healthy eating and lifestyles.”

Dr Faith Kumalo, chief director: care and support in school from the Department of Basic Education, delivered the key message on healthy living and lifestyles.

All the pupils were beneficiaries of food parcels and sports equipment.