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In light of the state’s growing interest in building the Egyptian citizen and enhancing public health, and under the patronage of Prof. Dr. Ahmed Abdel Aziz, Director of Theodor Bilharz Research Institute, the Clinical Nutrition Unit at the institute organized an educational scientific lecture entitled “Optimal Nutrition in School Age: Toward a Healthier and More Productive Generation.” The lecture aimed to highlight the importance of proper nutrition for school-aged children and its vital role in supporting physical and mental growth, as well as achieving better academic performance and behavioral outcomes. This comes within a series of scientific events intended to raise community awareness of the importance of healthy eating, particularly during critical stages of development.

The lecture was delivered by a distinguished group of physicians from the Clinical Nutrition Unit, including Dr. Marwa Abdel-Ghany Mohamed, Assistant Researcher of Public Health and Deputy Head of the Unit; Dr. Noha Mohamed Abdel Rahman, Assistant Researcher of Immunology; and Dr. Engy Mohsen Abdel Moneim, Assistant Researcher of Immunology. The presentation was characterized by a simplified scientific approach supported with real-life examples and up-to-date data.

The lecture began by emphasizing that a child’s health starts with their daily plate, and that the early years—especially the school stage—represent a proper chance to build a strong immune system, an active body, and a sharp mind. This directly impacts academic achievement, social behavior, and lifestyle in the future.

Several key topics were addressed, including the role of macronutrients (proteins, carbohydrates, and fats) in supporting children’s growth; the importance of micronutrients such as iron, zinc, and vitamin D in enhancing concentration, memory, and immunity; and the negative impact of unhealthy dietary habits such as excessive sugar and processed food intake on behavior and the risk of chronic diseases later in life. The lecture also provided practical advice for mothers and educators on preparing balanced, healthy school meals and explained the link between nutrition and children’s psychological and behavioral health—a dimension often overlooked in public discussions on diet.

The presentation also reviewed findings from recent studies showing increased rates of obesity and malnutrition among school-aged children in Egypt, reflecting the urgent need for continuous awareness efforts and early preventive interventions.

The event witnessed strong attendance and notable interaction, with an open discussion and Q&A session at the end. Participants exchanged views on the challenges of school nutrition in different settings and proposed solutions to improve the quality of food provided to children.

Commenting on the event, Prof. Dr. Ahmed Abdel Aziz stressed that the institute does not limit its role to research and treatment, but also carries an important community and educational mission. By supporting initiatives aimed at prevention and health education, the institute affirms that investing in children’s health is an investment in the nation’s future, and that building a productive generation starts with a healthy foundation from early childhood.

He also noted that the Clinical Nutrition Unit represents one of the institute’s vital arms in the field of health awareness and prevention, where its medical and research team plays a pivotal role in transferring scientific knowledge to the community in a practical, accessible way. He emphasized that the unit’s lectures go beyond academic content to actively promote behavioral change toward a healthier and more sustainable lifestyle, aligning with the state’s objectives of raising public health awareness for a more productive society with less burden on the healthcare system.

The Clinical Nutrition Unit concluded the event by announcing that this lecture is part of a series of periodic scientific lectures and seminars to be held at the institute, with the goal of spreading a culture of healthy nutrition and promoting public health across all segments of society. This reflects the institute’s comprehensive vision of prevention before treatment and reaffirms its role as an active partner in building a more health-conscious and productive community.