In a significant development for healthcare and education sectors, the Indian Nursing Council (INC) has issued a circular, Reference No. Z-28020/202/2023-CH, dated 24 April 2023, directing the active involvement of medical and nursing students in health check-ups conducted in schools. This directive comes as a result of the deliberations during the 2M Conference of Chief Secretaries held in New Delhi from 5-7 January 2023 and aligns with the vision set forth by the Hon’ble Prime Minister.
The involvement of medical and nursing students in ensuring health check-ups in schools is an integral part of the Rashtriya Bal Swasthya Karayakram (RBSK) initiative, which falls under the purview of the National Health Mission, Government of India. This initiative aims to prioritize the health and well-being of school children across the country.
Recognizing the importance of practical exposure and hands-on experience in the field of community health, the INC has mandated the participation of nursing students from all Nursing Schools and Colleges in the School Health Programme. This requirement is outlined in the V Semester Community Health Nursing of the B.Sc Nursing course and the 3rd year Community Health Nursing practical in the GNM course, as prescribed by the INC syllabus.
By actively engaging in the School Health Programme, nursing students will gain valuable real-world experience and contribute to the holistic development of school children. The initiative presents an opportunity for nursing students to apply their theoretical knowledge in a practical setting, fostering their understanding of community health and the challenges faced in school environments.
To ensure the successful implementation of this directive, the INC has called upon all Principals of Schools and Colleges of Nursing to take proactive measures in involving GNM, B.Sc Nursing, and Post Basic BSc Nursing students in health check-ups during the School Health Programme. The INC emphasizes that this active participation should be treated as an essential component of the nursing curriculum, offering students a practical platform to enhance their skills and knowledge.
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The School Health Programme encompasses various activities focused on addressing the health needs of students. These include regular health check-ups, early detection of health issues, and the provision of necessary interventions. By actively participating in these initiatives, nursing students will not only contribute to the well-being of school children but also gather valuable insights and data for future healthcare planning and policymaking.
This collaborative effort between the education and healthcare sectors is poised to make a substantial impact on the overall health and development of school children across the nation. By leveraging the expertise and dedication of nursing students, the initiative aims to strengthen the healthcare ecosystem, nurture competent healthcare professionals, and ensure the delivery of quality healthcare services to all.
The INC circulars serves as a pivotal guideline for all Nursing Schools and Colleges in India. The circular reiterates the importance of active involvement and engagement of GNM, B.Sc Nursing, and Post Basic BSc Nursing students in health check-ups during the School Health Programme, reinforcing their role as crucial contributors to the well-being of school children.
As this directive takes effect, nursing students across the nation are expected to seize this opportunity to make a tangible difference in the health outcomes of school children. Their active participation in the School Health Programme will not only enhance their educational journey but also contribute to building a healthier nation, one school at a time.
. This directive, stemming from the 2M Conference of Chief Secretaries and the Hon'ble Prime Minister's vision, aims to enhance nursing curriculum and promote holistic healthcare for school children.){kind=link}