Over 80% of School Desks, Chairs 'Unhealthy': SLMA

According to a recent study conducted by the Sri Lanka Medical Association (SLMA), more than 80% of desks or chairs in schools are not compatible with the physical dimensions of the students who use them.

Consultant Community Physician and SLMA Chairperson- Expert Committee On Ergonomics (ECE), Dr Kapila Jayaratne said, "Nearly 35% of children suffer from chronic muscularskeletal pain. Backache, joint pain, neck pain etc, easy general tiredness, psychological disturbances and scoliosis (abnormal lateral curvature of the spine) are the main complications."

The study also found that children were easily tired at the end of the day, many with psychological issues and 37% of children with possible scoliosis.

He said, "Seating arrangements in relation to the position of the blackboard are not ' healthy'. Limitations are in force, restricting children and changing their postures. More than 55% of children carry ' unhealthy' schoolbags. It is important to popularise 'healthy' schoolbags in parallel. It is essential to make parents, children, teachers and educational authorities knowledgeable on the subject." He said, "Healthy schoolbag campaign will be relaunched in collaboration with the Ministry of Educational Services."

The SLMA- ECE and the Educational Services Ministry held initial discussions to implement a programme for a healthy and safe classroom environment. Educational Services Ministry State Secretary, Tissa Hewavithana said plans are under way to initially provide 'healthy' desks and chairs to Grades 4 and 5, followed by other Grades.