The Presidential National Non-Communicable Diseases (NCD) Commission hosted an award ceremony this morning to honour students who participated in its first-ever Essay and Poster Competition.The competition, aimed at raising awareness about NCDs among young people, saw the participation of 15 students from various schools across the country. In his remarks, Chairman of the NCD Commission, Dr Leslie Ramsammy, commended the students for their dedication and creativity in addressing critical health issues. He emphasised the importance of youth engagement in health advocacy and education, noting that competitions like these foster a deeper understanding of NCDs and encourage proactive health practices from an early age.
Minister of Health, Honourable Dr Frank Anthony, also addressed the gathering, extending congratulations to all participants and awardees. He highlighted key initiatives within the Ministry of Health that support early screening for diabetes and other NCDs, as well as the School Health Programme, which plays a vital role in promoting healthier lifestyles among students. The Minister reiterated the government’s commitment to tackling NCDs through education, prevention, and early intervention. The students demonstrated exceptional creativity and knowledge through their
essays and posters, leading to the following winners being recognised:
• 1st Place: Subrina Dean – Mae’s Secondary School
• 2nd Place: Temidara Oyedoyum – School of the Nations
• 3rd Place: Diya Rijhwani – School of the Nations
Special awards were also presented:
• Best Essay: Sumaiya Amin – Tuschen Primary School
• Best Poster: Sajid Amin – Queen’s College High School
• Best Poster: Geronimo Simon – St. Cuthbert’s School
Also in attendance at the event were, Dr Bheri Ramsaran, Advisor to the Minister of Health, along with staff from the Ministry of Health’s Chronic Disease Unit and officials from the NCD Commission. The NCD Commission expressed its gratitude to the participating schools, teachers, and parents for their support and encouraged more students to take part in future initiatives aimed at promoting public health and wellness.
