UNRWA students in Syria celebrate World Health Day, ‘From Farm to Plate, Make Food Safe’

Young Palestine refugee students gathered at the UNRWA Damascus Training Centre on 15 April to celebrate a World Health Day event organized by UNRWA. This year’s theme, ‘From Farm to Plate, Make Food Safe’, explored food safety practices and nutritional health. Students explored the theme through music, theatrical performances and competitions.

Healthy and hygienic habits are critical for Palestine refugees in Syria today. Due to the crisis, Palestine refugees are at higher risk of contracting communicable diseases such as upper respiratory infections, skin infections and diarrhea due to reduced hygiene and a breakdown in water infrastructure.  They also face lifestyle-related diseases such as diabetes, heart disease and hypertension, which are compounded by reduced access to nutritious and diverse food in the market.

“The messages of the play and song will help me to avoid the junk food and eat fresh vegetables and fruits," said Faraj, a Damascus Training Centre student. This is the first step in becoming aware of the importance of developing good habits at an early age to cope with difficult circumstances.