The most prominent Non-Communicable Disease in Trinidad and Tobago is diabetes.
In its continuing quest to educate the public, particularly the younger generation, the Diabetes Association of Trinidad and Tobago held its fourth National Diabetes Quiz at the Chaguanas Borough Corporation.
The President of the Diabetes Association, Andrew Dhanoo, said the growth of this competition has been instrumental in educating young students about diabetes.
“This is the fourth year that we’ve been hosting the quiz, and the first time we hosted the quiz was back in 2022. We started with less than 500 children, and in four years, we now have over 1,000 children now participating from across the country. We had under 100 schools, and now we have over 200 primary schools taking part.”
Assistant Governor of the South Rotary Club, Dinna Bainey, emphasised why competitions such as these are important.
“Knowledge is power, and by equipping young minds with critical information about diabetes, nutrition and environmental care, we are shaping a generation that understands the importance of prevention and healthy living. The positive outcomes of this initiative extend far beyond today’s competition; children will be empowered to make better food choices, reducing the risk of chronic illness, schools will cultivate a culture of wellness that supports active lifestyles, families will benefit as children become wellness advocates at home.”
Surrounded by proud parents and supported by her school, the crowned winner was Aarya Kimraj of Dayanand Memorial Vedic School.
“Well, I learnt about the diabetes and how to prevent it, and now I can teach all my friends about it. I will tell them how to, if they get hypoglycaemia, know what to do and how to prevent their diabetes. For my sister, I will teach her everything I know, and if she ends up joining this competition, that she will come first just like me.”
The students who participated in the competition will have an opportunity in May to meet President Christine Kangaloo. The competition, which takes place regionally as well, will soon see the winners from participating countries compete for a regional trophy.