AIA Healthiest School: Educators Shaping Student Wellness

AIA Sri Lanka’s Healthiest Schools Programme: Empowering Educators to Shape Student Wellness

AIA Sri Lanka’s Healthiest Schools Programme is transforming the way educators approach student wellness and holistic development. Since its launch in October 2024, the initiative has gained significant traction, with over 100 schools across the country now actively participating. This rapid expansion highlights a growing dedication among Sri Lankan teachers to build healthier and more resilient school communities.

The programme offers a wide range of free, curriculum-aligned resources that focus on four core themes: healthy eating, active lifestyles, mental well-being, and sustainability. These materials include lesson plans, activity sheets, and multimedia content, all designed to be easily integrated into both primary and secondary school curricula. By providing these tools, AIA is equipping teachers with the means to go beyond traditional classroom instruction and inspire lifelong habits in their students.

Educators are not just passive recipients of these resources; they are active agents of change. One teacher from a school in the Uva Province shared how the programme has transformed their teaching approach. “The programme has empowered us to go beyond traditional teaching,” they said. “We now have the tools to inspire lifelong habits in our students.”

Across Sri Lanka, teachers are implementing innovative wellness initiatives tailored to the specific needs of their communities. For instance, student-led vegetable gardens have been introduced in several schools to promote nutrition and sustainability. Mindfulness sessions are also being used to enhance emotional well-being. These projects are reshaping the educational landscape and fostering a culture of health and resilience.

Participants in the programme have reported noticeable improvements in student engagement, behavior, and overall school atmosphere. A principal from a school in Saliyapura, Anuradhapura, noted, “We’ve seen a significant increase in physical activity and emotional resilience among our students. The programme has helped us create a more inclusive and supportive environment.”

Community involvement is a key component of the initiative. Parents and local stakeholders are encouraged to participate in wellness activities and school-wide events, which strengthens the social fabric of schools and reinforces the importance of health education. This collaborative approach ensures that the benefits of the programme extend beyond the classroom and into the broader community.

In addition to its impact on students, the AIA Healthiest Schools Programme provides valuable professional development opportunities for educators. Teachers gain practical experience in project management, health education, and leadership skills, which can enhance their career trajectories and personal growth.

“AIA’s initiative has elevated our role as educators. It’s not just about teaching, it’s about leading a movement that benefits our entire school community,” said a teacher from a leading school in Jaffna. This sentiment reflects the broader shift in the role of educators, who are now seen as leaders in promoting wellness and positive change.

As AIA Sri Lanka continues to expand the programme, the role of educators remains central to its success. Their dedication and innovation are driving meaningful change, positioning schools as catalysts for healthier futures. With continued support and recognition—including access to funding and national accolades—the programme is set to further empower teachers to lead the wellness revolution.