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The Link Between Child Healthcare and School Attendance in Nigeria

In Nigeria, millions of children miss school each year due to preventable illnesses like malaria, infections, and untreated injuries. For many families, accessing healthcare is difficult and expensive, especially in rural areas. This lack of proper medical care doesn’t just affect a child’s health — it directly impacts their ability to stay in school and complete their education.

At Health For Nigeria (HFN), we believe that healthy children are better learners. By tackling healthcare challenges within schools, we’re ensuring that no child’s education is disrupted by preventable illnesses.

How Poor Healthcare Leads to School Absenteeism

According to UNICEF, over 10 million Nigerian children are out of school, with a significant portion missing classes due to health-related issues. Common causes include:

  • Malaria and infections — Malaria alone is responsible for thousands of missed school days annually.

  • Untreated injuries or wounds — Many schools lack first aid facilities or staff to address even minor injuries.

  • Lack of health education — Children often lack basic knowledge about hygiene and disease prevention.

For a child living in underserved communities, a single episode of illness can lead to days or weeks of absence, causing them to fall behind academically.

The Role of School-Based Healthcare

Schools are more than just learning spaces; they are community hubs. By providing healthcare directly at schools, we can:

  • Diagnose and treat illnesses early

  • Reduce absenteeism caused by preventable conditions

  • Educate students on hygiene, nutrition, and preventive health

  • Create a safe environment where children can thrive

How HFN’s Nurse-A-School Program is Making a Difference

Through our Nurse-A-School Program, HFN places qualified nurses in schools across Nigeria. These nurses provide first aid, treat common illnesses, and refer students for advanced care when needed.

Impact of Nurse-A-School Program (2024):

  • 4,900+ clinic visits recorded across 12 schools.

  • 50% reduction in absenteeism due to timely healthcare.

  • Over 30,000 students cared for across 6 states.

By ensuring consistent access to healthcare within schools, we’re bridging the gap between education and wellness.

Health Clubs: Educating Students Beyond Treatment

Our School Health Clubs complement medical care by teaching children essential skills in hygiene, nutrition, and first aid. These clubs have empowered over 13,000 students to take ownership of their health and share knowledge within their communities.

How You Can Help

Every donation and partnership makes a direct impact. By sponsoring a nurse, funding health clubs, or supporting our sickbay projects, you help keep children in school and build healthier futures.

You can support us by:

  • Donating to fund nurses and medical supplies.

  • Partnering to sponsor school health programs.

  • Volunteering for community outreach initiatives.

Conclusion

Healthcare and education go hand in hand. When children are healthy, they can focus on learning, attend classes regularly, and reach their full potential. Through initiatives like the Nurse-A-School Program, HFN is proving that access to healthcare is key to breaking the cycle of poverty and school dropouts.

Join us today — because every child deserves a healthy start in life.

 

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