Puga, Jun 11: In a meaningful step towards improving adolescent health and promoting awareness around balanced diets and substance abuse, the Ladakh Environment and Health Organization (LEHO), in collaboration with the Health Department of UT Ladakh, held an interactive awareness program at Puga High School.
The session brought together health experts and students in an engaging and informative event aimed at improving youth health awareness.
The program featured expert sessions by Nutritionist Rigzin Rangdol, Counsellor Stanzin Edzes, and Psychologist Phungsog Disket. Rangdol emphasized the importance of a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables, especially for growing adolescents. She also shared practical cooking tips to preserve essential nutrients during food preparation.
Counsellor Edzes addressed the emotional and physical changes during adolescence, urging students to understand and manage this sensitive life phase with awareness and caution. She stressed the dangers of substance abuse, particularly how curiosity can lead teenagers toward harmful habits like smoking or drug use.
Psychologist Disket captivated the students by sharing real-life mental health cases from Leh and nearby areas. Her interactive approach encouraged students to participate and ask questions, creating an open dialogue on challenges faced by the youth.
Dr. Mohammed Deen, founder of LEHO, underscored the NGO’s longstanding support to Puga High School. Over the past four years, LEHO has invested more than ₹15 lakhs in infrastructure, including greenhouses, hygienic kitchens, solar-heated bathrooms, and hot water facilities. He cautioned students against junk food, linking it to poor physical and brain development, and advocated a diet rich in natural, locally grown produce.
The program highlighted the growing concern around youth health and the importance of community collaboration in shaping a healthier future for the children of Ladakh.
