Egypt is expanding its nationwide school health programme as more than 29,000 public and private schools prepare to screen primary school students for malnutrition during the new academic year. The initiative aims to identify anaemia, obesity and stunting at an early stage and provide timely medical support for children across the country.
The Ministry of Health and Population said the programme is part of the presidential initiative for the early detection of nutrition-related health conditions. It covers both Egyptian and non-Egyptian students enrolled in primary schools in all governorates.
Medical teams will visit schools throughout the academic year to carry out health checks. Students will have their weight, height and haemoglobin levels measured to identify possible signs of malnutrition and related conditions. Officials said the screenings are designed to detect health issues early, allowing children to receive care before problems become more serious.
The ministry explained that students who require additional medical attention will be referred to health insurance clinics for further examinations. Any necessary treatment will be provided free of charge through the programme.
Each student will also receive a personal follow-up card. The card will include important health information and allow medical teams to monitor progress after the initial screening. Officials said this system will help ensure students continue receiving the care they need.
Around 2,000 trained medical teams have been assigned to carry out the screenings across Egypt. The ministry said all teams are following infection prevention measures and established health protocols while working in schools.
To reduce crowding, the screenings will take place throughout the school year instead of being completed over a short period. Officials said this schedule will allow schools to continue normal classroom activities while health teams conduct examinations safely and efficiently.
In addition to the medical checks, health education teams will visit schools to promote healthy lifestyles among students. They will provide guidance on balanced nutrition, healthy eating habits and other practices that support children’s overall well-being.
The government views early detection as an important step in improving children’s health and supporting better learning outcomes. Health experts note that untreated anaemia, obesity and stunting can affect physical growth, energy levels and academic performance if left unmanaged.
The initiative has grown significantly since it was first introduced in 2019. According to the Ministry of Health and Population, more than 71.9 million medical examinations have been completed for primary school students through the end of the 2025–2026 academic year.
Officials said the programme reflects Egypt’s continued focus on preventive healthcare and child development. By expanding screenings to thousands of schools, the ministry hopes to identify health concerns early, improve access to free treatment and encourage healthier lifestyles among young students across the country.
The nationwide campaign will continue throughout the academic year, with medical teams working alongside schools to ensure children receive regular health assessments and appropriate follow-up care whenever needed.
