ABU DHABI (ALETIHAD)
A healthcare provider and an education major have teamed up to promote values of good health, healthier and happier lifestyles among teachers, students, staff and families.
Aster DM Healthcare and GEMS Education have entered into a partnership under which Aster will serve as the official Health and Wellness Partner across 45 GEMS schools in the UAE. The agreement will cover more than 140,000 students, 25,000 staff, and 110,000 families in the GEMS network.
The partnership will introduce programmes focusing on preventive healthcare, nutrition, fitness, mental health, and overall wellbeing. Dedicated initiatives will be rolled out for teachers and students, supported by Aster’s healthcare network, which includes hospitals, clinics, pharmacies, opticals, and the myAster digital platform.
Alisha Moopen, Managing Director and Group CEO of Aster DM Healthcare, said the collaboration aims to empower teachers and students to adopt healthy practices.
Jay Varkey, Deputy CEO of GEMS Education, noted that the partnership will bring medical expertise and wellness resources directly into schools and communities.
The tie-up includes the launch of a 12-month Health and Wellness Programme designed to instil positive lifestyle habits from an early age. Activities will include workshops, awareness campaigns, and the appointment of student wellness ambassadors. Teachers will also benefit from the “Teacher’s Thursday” concept, which offers discounts, priority appointments, and dedicated events for their families.
The initiative is scheduled to launch this month and will also provide exclusive offers for GEMS families at Aster’s facilities, including pharmacies, opticals, hospitals and clinics.