Dubai: On Sunday, at the “Beat Diabetes Walk” in Za’abeel Park, a new health education initiative named “Superkidz” for public elementary schools in the UAE was launched.
The 14th annual Beat Diabetes Walk, which was hosted by Landmark Group and attracted over 15,000 participants, and Superkidz, an initiative to combat diabetes, were announced as being jointly launched by Landmark Group and Emirates Schools Establishments (Taaleem).
Heroes advance well-being
Superkidz is a part of the Beat Diabetes effort that involves the Emirates Schools Establishment supplying comics in both Arabic and English to all public elementary school children. Superheroes Salem and Sara, who support healthy lifestyle habits including eating a balanced diet and getting regular exercise, appear in the comics.
“The launch of the Superkidz health education program and today’s Beat Diabetes Walk mark a pivotal moment in our collective pursuit of a healthier future,” stated Sawsan Al Amiri, Head of the Health Education Section of Emirates Schools Establishments (Taaleem). We are making great progress in promoting a wellness and preventative health culture in all UAE public elementary schools by partnering with Landmark Group.
“With its focus on instilling healthy practices from a young age, the Superkidz program aligns seamlessly with our commitment to raising awareness and prioritizing health, well-being, and social welfare,” the speaker continued. By working together, we can encourage a generational change that will lead to a community that is healthier and more active.
“This event emphasises the importance of sports and physical activity for community well-being in Dubai,” stated Saeed Mohammed Hareb, Secretary-General of the Dubai Sports Council. It also emphasizes how important the business sector’s contribution to these yearly events is. Dubai’s increasing involvement and sincere happiness are a testament to the city’s dedication to a thriving, healthy community.
Year-round Operations
“We have witnessed incredible community support at this year’s Beat Diabetes walk and family fun day,” stated Renuka Jagtiani, Chairwoman of Landmark Group. The success of this event directly supports the D33 Agenda’s goal of improving the standard of living for all citizens and is a monument to our shared desire to promote a healthier, livelier Dubai. Although November is recognized as International Diabetes Awareness Month, we believe that a rising illness like diabetes warrants our attention and action all year long, which is why we are hosting this event in February.
“I’m also excited to announce our collaboration with Taaleem to implement health education in public elementary schools,” she continued. In order to help the younger generation form healthier habits that will better support them throughout their lives and set the way for a healthier future generation, we want to increase early awareness of diabetes and healthy lifestyles.
Fun and fitness
The “Step Into a Healthier Tomorrow” theme of this year’s Beat Diabetes event brought families together to encourage physical activity for people of all ages. Family-friendly fitness, sports, educational, and entertainment events took place after the customary 2 km walk.
Beat Diabetes is a joint venture between non-profits, government agencies, the commercial sector, and Landmark Group. Al Jalila Foundation, with whom Beat Diabetes has established a Dh5 million fund for diabetes treatment, was one of the event’s partners this year.
All attendees could take advantage of free blood-glucose testing at the Aster DM Healthcare health zone. More than 2,000 attendees under the age of twelve were drawn to the newly opened children’s area.