TAF programme evolves into "Holistic Health Framework" for students
By Noor Mohd Aziz, Channel NewsAsia | Posted: 19 March 2007 1921 hrs

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SINGAPORE : The Trim and Fit (TAF) programme in schools is moving on.

The programme has been credited for making a vast improvement in the physical fitness level of students here.

Implemented 15 years ago, the TAF programme has evolved into what is called the "Holistic Health Framework".

According to the Education Ministry, the new framework will take into account the total well-being of each and every student.

The TAF Programme has been successful since it was implemented in 1992.

But being healthy is not just about being physically fit.

And that is why the new "Holistic Health Framework" will look at a student's physical, mental and social health.

The Education Ministry hopes that this new approach will motivate students to continue with a healthy lifestyle, even after leaving school.

So schools will be given time to develop the different aspects of this new push.

Masagos Zulkifli, Senior Parliamentary Secretary, Education, said, "MOE will work closely with schools to help them set (in place) their processes for (the) total health of our students... over the next three to four years.

"This period of about three years will provide schools time as we recognise that each school is at a different stage of progress and level of readiness in the area of health promotion. We will want to see every school come on board the 'Holistic Health Framework' by 2010."

Mr Masagos was speaking at the annual TAF Award Ceremony, which recognises schools for their efforts and their achievements in keeping their students trim and fit.

And from next year, to match the new programme that will replace TAF, schools will receive a different award for their health promotion efforts.

The Health and Promotion Board and the Education Ministry will be jointly giving out the "Championing Efforts Resulting in Improved School Health" or CHERISH award.

Meanwhile, to recognise the efforts of Junior Colleges and Centralised Institutes in promoting physical fitness, the final year students from these institutions received the Mindef Physical Fitness Awards (MPFPA). - CNA/ms