By Yussif Ibrahim
Dokyiwa (Ash), March 24, GNA – AngloGold Ashanti Obuasi Mine, has sensitised pupils of Dokyiwa M/A School on oral hygiene in commemoration of World Oral Health Day.
The exercise was also in line with the Integrated Health Education Programme recently launched by the mining firm in public schools in its operational areas.
The programme, which is an integral part of their academic guidance and personal development programme, is expected to bring health education to the doorsteps of school children in a bid to promote a healthy, physical, psychosocial and conducive learning environment.
With the support of the Ghana Education Service and the AGA Health Foundation, the event was aimed at raising awareness among school children about the important role of oral health in overall well-being.
The school children, including their teachers, were taken through engaging educational sessions on oral hygiene, proper brushing techniques, cavity prevention, and the right foods and drinks to maintain strong and healthy teeth.
Dr. Edwin Addo-Tham, the resident dentist at AGA Health Foundation admonished the children to prioritise their oral health.
He took them through key oral care practices, including brushing twice daily for two minutes, using fluoride toothpaste, reducing sugary and acidic foods, replacing toothbrushes every 3-4 months, and visiting the dentist regularly for check-ups.
Ms. Mavis Nana Yaa Kyei, Social Development and Gender Superintendent of AngloGold Ashanti Obuasi Mine, said the company decided to extend the programme to the Dokyiwa School to get the school children informed about issues that affected their personal wellbeing.
She said AngloGold Ashanti Obuasi Mine remained committed to inculcating into school children the need to make their health issues a priority.
“When we start at this stage, we believe the children will grow up with this and become accountable and responsible to their health matters,” she noted.
Madam Naomi Ampofo, Headmistress of the Dokyiwa M/ A JHS, commended AngloGold Ashanti for extending the programme to the school, adding that, it had broadened the students’ perspective on oral health hygiene.
She emphasised the significance of joining hands with the world to celebrate World Oral Health Day and educate children on oral health.
GNA
KOM/KOA