The Need for Health Education in Our Educational System

Abstract

The Albanian education system, when it comes to health education, still has a long way to go. Currently, health education is not integrated as a real subject in the school curriculum, but is treated in a fragmented manner within other subjects such as biology or physical education. This limited approach means that students do not acquire in-depth and comprehensive knowledge about health issues, including hygiene, mental health or infectious diseases. Without clear planning and dedicated resources, many children face a lack of information that could help them improve their lifestyles. On the other hand, Western countries such as the United States, Canada and some Nordic countries have made significant progress in this regard. These countries have integrated health education as an essential part of the school curriculum, including special subjects that cover specific topics such as physical, sexual, and mental health. For example, in Finland, health education is compulsory and includes a comprehensive approach to producing informed individuals who are capable of making informed decisions regarding their health. These countries also have programs to train teachers who have specialized training in health education. In other countries, such as those in East Asia, such as Japan and Korea, health education is also a priority, but it is more about discipline and a general culture of health and hygiene.Japan has programs that promote healthy lifestyles from a young age, including education about nutrition, physical activity, and disease prevention. In comparison, the Albanian education system should follow these models and provide a more structured health education that not only educates children in the present but also prepares them for the future to become healthy and aware citizens.

Received: 2 August 2024 / Accepted: 10 November 2024 / Published: 3 December 2024