Exploring the Hurdles of Implementing National School Health Policy in Namibian Schools: Insights from Stakeholders

This qualitative study delves into stakeholder perspectives on the challenges of implementing Namibia's National School Health Policy (NSHP) in schools. The primary goal of the NSHP is to nurture a healthy future generation by enhancing the social, mental, and physical well-being of teachers, staff, and students. The study assesses the policy's impact on health, school attendance, academic performance, and the overall well-being of the school community. Through semi-structured interviews with 20 stakeholders from three regions - Khomas, Oshana, and Kavango in Namibia, including educators, nurses, principals, and health program administrators, the study uncovers key implementation barriers, such as staffing shortages, inadequate resources, and limited student awareness of their health rights.