In today’s competitive world, students might focus on their studies at the expense of their well-being. However, it is crucial to recognise that students’ well-being is key to their performance in school.

Beyond providing education, schools are responsible for the holistic development of their students, including their mental, emotional and physical well-being. This is reflected in statistics which indicating that more parents feel that enrolling their children in schools emphasising well-being is more important compared to schools acclaimed for their academic performance.

Since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, children’s mental health has drastically declined, in large part due to school closures that have isolated them from their peers.

At the National Taiwan University, students are now allowed to take leave from school if they struggle with their mental health. Aside from mental wellness, students’ physical health is equally as important. The Malaysian Medical Association has been encouraging the integration of health education in schools, alongside encouraging students to adopt healthy eating habits and active lifestyles.

By fostering a culture of well-being where all stakeholders in education are committed to creating an environment where students are well taken care of, students will be better at managing themselves and can excel in school.