SUVA, April 9 (Xinhua) -- Latest statistics from the United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) showed that over a third of older children and adolescents in Fiji are overweight or obese, Fiji Broadcasting Corporation reported on Tuesday.
UNICEF Pacific Representative Jonathan Veitch stressed the need to promote healthier eating habits among students.
"Canteen in schools are still providing poor quality choices. So that's not a good thing for kids if they go into schools and the canteen only gives them unhealthy choices," Veitch said.
He added that young people are facing an increased risk of developing non-communicable diseases (NCDs) later in life.
Fiji's Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Education Viliame Gavoka also highlighted the need to strengthen collaborations to improve what's sold in schools.
"There is directive on how to improve on the diet and we will continue to focus on that, at that ground level we need more support from the community," Gavoka said.
By ensuring school canteens offer a range of nutritious options and reducing the availability of unhealthy snacks, this initiative aims to empower young Fijians to make informed dietary choices that benefit their well-being.
According to UNICEF's latest nutrition data for its 2023-2027 nutrition program, approximately 7,000 of the 91,897 children under 5 years old in Fiji are living with obesity, while 7.2 percent of those under the age of 5 are stunted. ■
