Aster DM Healthcare and GEMS Education have partnered to promote children’s health and wellbeing in UAE schools through innovative wellness programmes.

DUBAI: Aster DM Healthcare and GEMS Education have entered into a major partnership aimed at placing health and wellness at the heart of learning across 45 schools in the UAE. As the official Health and Wellness Partner, Aster will introduce tailored programmes designed to encourage healthier lifestyles among teachers, students, staff, and families.

The collaboration will reach more than 140,000 students, 25,000 employees, and 110,000 families within the GEMS Education community. Beginning with teachers as key influencers in children’s lives, the partnership underscores Aster DM Healthcare’s focus on prevention and community engagement to build a healthier future for the next generation.

Through Aster’s integrated ecosystem, including hospitals, clinics, pharmacies, opticals, Medcare facilities and the myAster app, a wide range of support will be made available. The new 12-month Health and Wellness Programme will emphasise nutrition, fitness, mental health, preventive care, and holistic wellbeing. Special initiatives such as ‘Teacher’s Thursday’ will offer exclusive discounts, fast-tracked appointments, and events for teachers and their families, both in the UAE and abroad.

Alisha Moopen, Managing Director and Group CEO of Aster DM Healthcare, highlighted the importance of empowering teachers in shaping the wellbeing of young learners. “They are tomorrow’s leaders, and at Aster, the least we can do is ensure they reach their full potential by staying healthy and adopting lifelong wellness habits,” she said.

Jay Varkey, Deputy CEO of GEMS Education, emphasised the alignment of the initiative with GEMS’ holistic education mission. “With Aster’s support our students, teachers, and families gain access to knowledge, resources, and care that will help them live healthier, happier lives,” he noted.

The partnership will also feature AI-powered learning tools to make health education engaging and interactive, while appointing Student Health and Wellness Ambassadors to encourage peer-led wellness. Parents will also be involved through expert talks and awareness sessions, ensuring the initiative builds a community-wide movement for better health.

By focusing on prevention, wellness education, and community involvement, the Aster-GEMS collaboration is set to strengthen the UAE’s vision of raising a healthier, happier and future-ready generation.