As discussions continue around children’s health and safety, a renewed call is being made for greater emphasis on conducting regular physical examinations for students.

The appeal, from lobby group Hear the Children’s Cry (HTCC) follows the recent deaths of several students who collapsed at their schools.

Two such incidents occurred this month.

On September 12, 15-year-old Taniesha Gayle reportedly collapsed during track training at Edwin Allen High School in Clarendon. She later died at hospital.

Her death came just two days after Grade 6 student Jada Nelson collapsed and died at Bull Savannah Primary School in St. Elizabeth.

Earlier in June, Grade 9 student Daylan Findlay of Central High School in Clarendon collapsed at the institution and later died, after reportedly participating in an activity.

Speaking with IRIE FM News, HTCC Director Nigel Cooper said these tragic incidents highlight the urgent need for schools to prioritize students’ physical health.

He noted that while students are usually required to undergo a medical examination upon entering a new school, no further physical check-ups are usually done afterwards.

Mr. Cooper is calling for this practice to change, recommending that at least annual medical check-ups be provided, particularly for students involved in extra-curricular activities.

Mr. Cooper is also urging parents to ensure that their children are regularly screened to identify and monitor potential health risks.

He is suggesting that educational institutions partner with insurance companies to assist parents who may not have the financial resources to cover the cost of these medical check-ups.