Photo: Reuters file used for illustrative purposes
Even before the new backpack weight limits come into effect in Abu Dhabi, schools have already been taking steps to ensure students' bags are not too heavy. Starting February 1, 2025, schools in the emirate will be required to limit backpack loads to between five and 10 per cent of students' weight. This initiative has been welcomed by many parents, especially after witnessing the struggles their children faced with heavy bags.
School officials have assured that they have policies in place to reduce backpack weight. One of the strategies being implemented is the use of digital books. “We use e-books and online resources, which significantly lightens the load, as students only need a device to access their materials,” said David Craggs, vice-principal of GEMS World Academy, Abu Dhabi, in an interview with Khaleej Times. “With digital books in place, students can access materials on various platforms.”
Modular books are also being considered, allowing students to carry only the necessary chapters for specific classes. “The school library plays a vital role, enabling students to borrow books as needed, thereby minimizing the number of books carried daily,” Craggs added.
While school lockers could be used to store books, principal Abhilasha Singh noted that this could pose challenges. “If books are kept in school lockers, students may face difficulties in completing homework and studying for exams,” said Singh of Shining Star International School Abu Dhabi. To address this, schools often provide alternative solutions, such as downloadable assignments or online portals and apps, allowing students to access homework tasks without needing to carry physical books home.
At Abu Dhabi Indian School, Al Muroor, a homework schedule is followed “so that students only carry the books relevant for their assignments, allowing them to leave the rest in their lockers,” said the campus' principal, Neeraj Bhargava.
Studies show that carrying more than 10 to 15 per cent of one's weight can lead to issues such as back pain, shoulder strain, and abnormal spine alignment. Dr Sherif Mohamed Mosaad Kamel, a paediatrician and neonatologist at Zulekha Hospital Dubai, emphasized that ideally, backpacks of younger students should not exceed 1.5 to 2.5 kg, approximately 10 per cent of their body weight. As students advance to higher grades, these weight limits could increase in correlation with their physical development.
Kamel urged all schools to implement strategies, such as encouraging the use of digital textbooks and providing lockers, to support 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.”
Sara AlKuwari is an Emirati reporter who may appear shy and quiet but is determined and has a strong desire to highlight Emirati culture in an impactful way. She is also a tea lover and an avid reader.
Source link: https://www.khaleejtimes.com
