KMC to launch ‘Little Doctors’ program in schools
The program will start in four community schools, according to city officials.
KATHMANDU: Kathmandu Metropolitan City (KMC) has initiated a “Little Doctors” program in schools to promote positive health education among children.
The program will start in four community schools, according to city officials.
Dr. Diwash Neupane, Medical Officer at the Health Department, explained, “The program provides training on five key areas: personal hygiene and sanitation, nutrition, lifestyle and non-communicable diseases, infectious diseases and antimicrobial resistance, first aid and safety, as well as mental health and leadership.”
The program emphasizes peer learning, hands-on activities, role-playing, record-keeping, and monitoring as its main teaching methods.
After three months of structured training based on the curriculum, students will implement health promotion activities in groups over the remaining nine months.
Each school health club will consist of 15 to 20 students.
Acting Chief Sunita Dangol highlighted the importance of fostering health awareness and collaborative learning among children.
She said, “The program should not feel like a burden for those implementing it. Motivation is key to making the program sustainable and effective. Results may take time, but they are positive and long-lasting.”
There is also a recognized need for adolescent sexual and reproductive health programs in schools. Chinikaji Maharjan, Coordinator of the Education and Health Committee, emphasized that community school students should be empowered with confidence to engage in positive competition. “Extra effort is needed to ensure effective learning from these extracurricular programs,” he noted.
Dipak Kumar KC, Head of the Health Department, stated that findings from the pilot program will inform the design of a larger-scale initiative. “This may be the first program of its kind in schools. We aim to ensure it delivers measurable results,” he said. Education Officer Keshav Gyawali added that the involvement and understanding of school management committees, principals, and teachers are essential for smooth implementation.
The “Little Doctors” program trains students to become health ambassadors, promoting awareness in schools, families, and the wider community. Its ultimate goal is to foster health-conscious, informed, and proactive youth.
