Authorities are preparing mandatory health education in schools, with modules on drugs, hygiene, nutrition, and addictions

Health education could become mandatory in Romanian schools, after years of controversy and unsuccessful attempts to introduce a national program. The Ministry of Health and the Ministry of Education are preparing age-appropriate modules for students, which would address drug-use prevention, healthy eating, hygiene, reproductive health and the risks of addiction.

Health Minister Alexandru Rogobete argues that the subject should not remain optional, as this could limit students’ access to essential information. The two ministries intend to establish an interministerial working group to determine the content and implementation stages.

Meanwhile, a draft organic law signed by 27 lawmakers is undergoing an expedited procedure in the Senate. The initiative seeks to create a unified framework for health and prevention education, amid drug, alcohol and tobacco use at increasingly younger ages, unhealthy diets, sedentary lifestyles and the high number of underage mothers.

There is no official timetable yet. Until a potential mandatory subject is adopted, projects such as “Brain Health School Challenge” are attempting to bring prevention into schools through activities dedicated to students.