The Education Ministry has stressed that school gardens play a critical role in the fight against childhood obesity and other non-communicable diseases among young people.

Deputy Chief Education Officer for Core Curriculum and Support Services, Winnie Berry, made the comment while addressing the National School Garden Grand Exhibition and Awards Ceremony yesterday.

Berry cited the connections between school gardens, healthier eating habits and improved student health outcomes.

She said the National School Garden Project encourages students to grow, prepare and consume healthier foods, while fostering positive eating habits from an early age to help combat obesity.