The intersection of health and education is a critical focal point for practitioners aiming to enhance the well-being and potential of young people. The symposium titled "Building a Healthier Future: A Human Capital Perspective on Health and Education," presented at the European Congress of Tropical Medicine and International Health in Liverpool, UK, offers valuable insights that can transform how we approach these sectors.
The Importance of Comprehensive Investment
Donald Bundy introduced the symposium by highlighting the necessity of extending health investments beyond the first 1000 days of life. The World Bank’s Disease Control Priorities now emphasize the importance of continued investment into early adulthood. This approach ensures that initial health interventions are sustained and that young people are supported during critical developmental periods such as puberty and late adolescence.
This comprehensive investment is essential for individuals to reach their full intellectual and skills potential as adults. The Lancet Commission on Adolescent Health and other international bodies reinforce these conclusions, advocating for a shift in focus to include adolescent health as a core component of human capital development.
Addressing Investment Disparities
The economic analysis presented at the symposium reveals a stark disparity in sectoral investments. While education receives substantial funding, investment in children's health remains disproportionately low. Gaston Sorgho from the World Bank Group’s Human Capital Project highlighted this mismatch, emphasizing the need for cost-effective interventions in low- and middle-income countries.
The Human Capital Index (HCI) developed by the World Bank measures potential human capital attainment by age 18. Regions like Africa score low on this index due to shortfalls in education and health, underscoring the urgent need for integrated strategies that boost both sectors.
A Multisectoral Strategy for Success
The symposium underscored the importance of a multisectoral strategy to maximize human capital development. The Universal School Health and Nutrition Coverage Strategy aims to increase access to essential health services within schools. These services include school-based deworming, menstrual hygiene management, sexual and reproductive health education, and socio-emotional skills training.
Zainab Adam highlighted efforts to maintain education during emergencies through initiatives like Education Cannot Wait. By ensuring continuous education access during crises, this fund supports stability and resilience in affected communities.
The Role of School Feeding Programs
Edward Lloyd-Evans from the WFP discussed the significant returns on investment from school feeding programs. These programs not only enhance educational outcomes but also contribute to broader economic benefits, including agriculture and social protection.
Lesley Drake emphasized that well-designed school health programs can provide sustainable investments due to their reach within communities. These programs address real needs such as gender inequities, with initiatives like menstrual hygiene management significantly improving school participation among girls.
Clinical Perspectives on Adolescent Health
Sarah Rowland-Jones brought attention to clinical perspectives, particularly mental health issues that emerge during adolescence. Addressing mental health alongside physical health is crucial for holistic adolescent development.
Peter Piot concluded by stressing that investments in health should be justified not only for their direct benefits but also for their contributions to economic growth through human capital creation.
Implementing Research Outcomes in Practice
Practitioners can leverage these insights by advocating for integrated health and education strategies within their institutions. Collaborating with stakeholders across sectors can lead to more comprehensive support systems for students.
To explore these concepts further and implement them effectively in your practice, consider conducting additional research or attending relevant conferences and webinars. By staying informed and proactive, you can contribute significantly to building a healthier future for young people.
To read the original research paper, please follow this link: A commentary on the interagency symposium: ‘Building a Healthier Future: A Human Capital Perspective on Health and Education’, presented at the European Congress of Tropical Medicine and International Health, Liverpool, UK, October 2019.
