New school bag introduced

by Ananda Kannangara

Parents of over four million schoolchildren have focused special attention on the introduction of a standard schoolbag when the new school term begins tomorrow.

According to the Education Ministry, the new schoolbags are designed by the Ministry in association with the Ministry of Healthcare and Nutrition.

The Education Ministry was compelled to introduce a new schoolbag last year since most bags in the market do not conform to the accurate standard. The use of such bags will lead to various risks for children, experts say.

Education Minister Bandula Gunawardana told the Sunday Observer that a standard bag for schoolchildren has been a long felt need considering the health problems of children.

According to Minister Gunawardana, a special sticker will be pasted on all standard schoolbags in the market from today.

According to a recent research carried out by Dr. Kapila Jayaratna on the correct standard of schoolbags, pains and aches in the body, spinal deformities and psychological trauma are the main problems very often cited by children who do not use standard schoolbags.

The standard schoolbags are rectangular in shape and the edges are curved.

Each bag has two separate compartments; heavy school material should be packed in the compartment closest to the body while

light items should be packed in compartments away from the body.

Education officials also advise children to fasten the waist belt from the front.

When carrying the bag, its bottom edge should be at least four inches above the waist.