Saudi Schools Expand Student Health and Prevention

Oct 28, 2026•2 min read

Saudi Arabia's Ministry of Health and Ministry of Education continue to run joint programs that strengthen preventive care and health awareness among students across the Kingdom. Through the Healthy Schools Program, the two ministries work together to integrate student health promotion with daily education.

The program addresses students' physical, psychological, social, and health-education needs. Its linked School-Based Health Awareness Program focuses on building health knowledge, encouraging healthy behavior, supporting self-management, and raising awareness of students' own health conditions. Awareness topics include oral health, prevention of communicable diseases, mental health, gaming addiction, physical activity, obesity control, nutrition, and healthy sleep.

Fitness Screening and Vaccinations

First-grade students undergo a school fitness screening that includes verification of vaccinations, review of medical history, body mass index (BMI), and checks for vision, hearing, speech, dental, oral, and general clinical health. Parents book the fitness screening through the Sehhaty application. Required school vaccinations include polio, DPT, MMR, and varicella.

Families of students with conditions such as diabetes, epilepsy, heart disease, or asthma are encouraged to share medical details with the school, including required medication, emergency procedures, and warning symptoms, so staff can respond quickly when needed.

A national tooth-decay prevention initiative provides awareness sessions, preventive dental applications, and treatment procedures for primary-school students. In addition, the 2026 Live Well lunchbox guide supports nutrition education and encourages healthier food choices in schools.

For families in Riyadh, Jeddah, and other cities, these programs mean earlier detection of health issues, better daily habits, and clearer support for students with chronic conditions — helping children stay healthier while they learn.

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