Picture for illustrative purposes only. ARCHIVE

Private schools in Abu Dhabi have been taking steps to ensure students' bags are not too heavy following the enforcement of new school bag weight limits in the emirate. The new policy issued by the Abu Dhabi Department of Education and Knowledge stated that schools in the emirate must limit backpack weights to five to 10 percent of a student's body weight. Many parents have welcomed this move, especially after witnessing their children struggle with heavy bags. Now, school officials have shared that they have measures in place to reduce backpack weight, with one strategy being the use of digital books. Other solutions being considered include teachers providing downloadable assignments or using online portals and apps, enabling students to access homework tasks without carrying physical books home. Another private school also follows a homework schedule to ensure students carry only the books required for their assignments, keeping the rest in their lockers. Backpack weight is a concern for students, as studies indicate that carrying more than 10 to 15 percent of one's body weight can lead to health issues like back pain, shoulder strain, and abnormal spine alignment. Dr. Sherif Mohamed Mosaad Kamel, a pediatrician and neonatologist at Zulekha Hospital Dubai, urged all schools to adopt strategies that promote students' health and well-being, "Schools must take measures to prevent students from carrying overly heavy bags and ensure the healthy growth of children's developing muscles and bones." FLE/Expat Media
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