In an effort to improve the quality of life of children from 6 to 11 years of age, the School of Health Sciences, through the medical career, implemented a project to promote healthy lifestyle habits in the Beldaca school, located in the rural parish of Beldaca, in the Daule canton. The initiative, which lasted five months, sought to generate a positive impact on the community, addressing key aspects such as a balanced diet, regular physical activity, personal hygiene and emotional health.
During implementation, 20 medical students worked together with 40 children from the Beldaca school, who come from low-income households and face challenges related to unfavorable health determinants.
The intervention not only benefited the children, but also had a significant impact on their families and the community at large. Parents and teachers received practical tools to promote healthy habits in their homes and schools, which contributed to creating an environment more conducive to children's development. In addition, medical students strengthened their professional skills by applying their knowledge in a real and vulnerable context, allowing them to develop a critical perspective and a deeper commitment to social and health issues in rural communities.
This project represents an example of how collaboration between academia and the community can generate positive and sustainable changes in people's lives. Promoting healthy habits from childhood is fundamental to building a healthier and more prosperous society, and this initiative has set an important precedent in Beldaca Parish. It is hoped that the knowledge and practices acquired during the project will continue to be replicated and passed on from generation to generation, ensuring a healthier future for the children of this rural community.
