Download the final 'Closing the Gap' publication: Taking Action on Health Equity.
This publication contains summaries of what each of the 21 ´Closing the Gap´ partners are doing to address health inequalities in their countries, as well as the conclusions and recommendations of this 3-year initiative.
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Addressing SDHI in education strategies
The Ministry of Education addresses SDHI (directly and indirectly) in their Education Policy, Sports Policy, Youth Policy and the Children, Youth and Families Government Policy Programme (For more information, see links below). In cooperation with other ministries, a horizontal Government Policy Programme (chaired by the Ministry of Education) has been launched with the aim to achieve a more child-friendly Finland.
Other work that has been lead by the Ministry of Education include the development of a special needs education program within the education system, instruction in health education as a new subject and the establishment of morning and after- school activities for young school children.
Further Exploration of the Education Policy:
Health in all policies is a principle taken into account in the Finnish Education Policy. Education has a high correlation with health. The higher the education one has, the better the health outcomes will be, and vice versa. The first third of one’s life span, the years from birth up to about the 30 years of life, is a crucial time to gather up the health capital of an individual. For this reason, every child and young person is provided with equal opportunities to participate in high quality education. Primary education provides everyone academic as well as life skills needed in daily life, work, continued studies and life-long learning. If a pupil has learning disabilities or other problems hampering his/her participation in education, pupil welfare and special-needs education are a means to support his/her capacity for equal participation in education. All young people are provided with the possibility to continue studies in secondary or vocational schools and in higher education. This is achieved by making education free, thus accessible to all.
In addition to the above mentioned basic strategies, the Government launched a special policy programme to promote the well-being of children, young people and families. The objective is to promote the well-being of children, youth, and families and to prevent/alleviate ill-health and social exclusion. The Adult Education Policy is a part of the Education Policy and it supports life-long learning. There is also a special programme focused on citizens who do not have a vocational education, which will operate until 2009.
Addressing SDHI in transport strategies
The Ministry of Transport and Communications is combating emissions and noise, improving traffic safety and promoting activities such as cycling and walking.
Addressing SDHI in agricultural strategies
The Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry ensures access to clean water in the countryside.