The University of Guelph is helping lead a Canadian university movement to promote health and well-being on campuses.
U of G is one of 10 universities in Canada to formally adopt the Okanagan Charter: An International Charter for Health-Promoting Universities and Colleges.
The charter calls on post-secondary institutions to develop action plans that ensure health and well-being in campus culture, policies and practices.
Universities in Canada and around the world are recognizing the importance of a framework for developing a healthful atmosphere in which to live, work and learn, says Brenda Whiteside, associate vice-president (student affairs).
The charter ties into current U of G initiatives, including a renewed focus on mental health discussions and awareness, and the new Wellness@Work plan, Whiteside says.
“We want to embed health into all aspects of campus culture, across the administration, operations and academic mandates. We also plan to lead health promotion action and collaboration locally and globally.”
The charter was created with international partners, including the Pan American Health Organization and the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization.