Okay, picture this: 140,000+ students, 25,000 teachers and staff, and 110,000 families across 45 schools in the UAE… all getting a massive upgrade in their health and wellness game. Sounds like a superhero-level move, right? Well, that’s exactly what’s happening with Aster DM Healthcare and GEMS Education joining forces.
This isn’t your typical “eat your veggies” lecture. Nope. This is about making wellness a lifestyle, sneaking it into everyday routines, and turning healthy habits into second nature. Think workshops, awareness campaigns, AI-powered tools for students, and even perks like Teacher’s Thursday (because, let’s be honest, teachers deserve VIP treatment every day of the week).
Health Meets Education: A Match Made in UAE
Aster DM Healthcare, with its massive network of hospitals, clinics, pharmacies, opticals, and even the myAster app, is plugging right into GEMS Education’s universe of schools. Together, they’re rolling out a 12-month Health and Wellness Programme that covers everything from nutrition and fitness to mental health and preventive care.
The philosophy? Catch Them Young. Because let’s face it, it’s easier to convince kids to enjoy carrots now than to make them give up burgers later.
Why Teachers Are Front and Centre
Teachers aren’t just shaping math whizzes and future poets—they’re also modeling what a healthy lifestyle looks like. That’s why Aster and GEMS are giving them exclusive benefits, discounts, and fast-track medical appointments for their families (and even extended family abroad). Basically, the message is: “Teachers, we’ve got your back.”
Students as Wellness Ambassadors
Now, this part is cool. Students won’t just sit and listen—they’ll get to lead. Aster and GEMS are appointing Student Health and Wellness Ambassadors to champion healthy living among their peers. Add in some AI-powered health learning tools, and suddenly, health class sounds a lot less boring.
Parents, You’re In on This Too
Moms and dads aren’t left out. Expect expert talks, resources, and access to global best practices in children’s health. Plus, GEMS families score special offers at Aster facilities—whether it’s at pharmacies, opticals, or hospitals.
The Big Picture
Commenting on the partnership, Alisha Moopen, Managing Director and Group CEO, Aster DM Healthcare said, “Today’s children are the future of the UAE, building on the nation’s legacy and driving its growth story as it continues to lead on the world stage. They are tomorrow’s leaders, and at Aster, the least we can do is ensure they reach their full potential by staying healthy and adopting lifelong wellness habits. This begins with empowering teachers, who play a pivotal role in not only nurturing knowledge but also in building the foundation of health and wellbeing. We are proud to partner with GEMS Education, the region’s largest and most respected education network, to bring this vision to life and support their mission of shaping the young minds of the UAE.”
Jay Varkey, Deputy CEO, GEMS Education said: “Our partnership with Aster DM Healthcare brings world-class medical expertise and wellbeing programmes directly into our schools and communities. At GEMS Education, we believe a holistic education must nurture body and mind, and with Aster’s support our students, teachers, and families gain access to knowledge, resources, and care that will help them live healthier, happier lives.”
So here’s to a UAE where schools aren’t just about exams and report cards, but also about well-being, resilience, and lifelong wellness habits. And honestly? That sounds like an A+ plan.
