The Healthier Kids Programme (formerly known as the Healthy Kids Programme) is a global initiative that underscores Nestlé’s dedication to promoting healthy and sustainable lifestyle habits among children through community-driven partnerships. This unbranded program is being implemented in over 80 countries worldwide.
In Mauritius, the programme is a collaboration between the Ministry of Education and Human Resource and the Mauritius Institute of Education (MIE). Since its launch in 2015, the MIE has led the development of educational materials and activities for the programme. Additionally, the MIE conducts training and briefing sessions for the school community.
Initially introduced in 2016 in 34 primary schools, the programme focused on Grade 2 students. Since 2019, it has expanded to include students in Grades 2, 3, 4, and 5 in all government and Roman Catholic Aided primary schools across Mauritius.
Scaling up of Healthier Kids Programme: 2016 to date
The programme, now focusing on sustainable living, has evolved over time. Since 2022, besides healthy eating and physical activity, it also promotes sustainable practices, with an emphasis on solid waste management through the ‘RE’ component that includes the 3Rs – Reduce, Reuse and Recycle. The “RE” component aims to instil eco-conscious habits in children for a healthier future.
In Mauritius, the Healthier Kids Programme, has been conceptualised as a school-based educational programme to promote sustainable lifestyle choices for a healthier nation and planet through the Holistic Education Programme of the primary school curriculum. The programme supports the Holistic Education Curriculum by offering resources and activities designed for Grades 2 to 5 students, their families, and their teachers. These resources align with the Health and Physical Education (HPE) curriculum, as well as the Arts and Values & Citizenship Education (VACE) curriculum. The programme is not an “add-on” to the curriculum but works in harmony with existing lessons to strengthen key concepts through a holistic and interdisciplinary approach.
