A new prevention initiative brings healthy habits to life in classrooms across the country
With childhood obesity rates rising rapidly, Serbia is stepping up efforts to protect the health of its youngest generation. Obesity rates among children in Serbia are increasing by an estimated 5.2% annually.1 Without urgent action, more than half of Serbia’s children could be living with overweight or obesity by 2035.2
A key driver? Sedentary routines and excessive screen time are replacing physical activity, especially among school-aged children.
In response, Cities for Better Health is partnering with the Serbian ministries of education, sport and public health, along with the National Alliance for Local Economic Development (NALED), to pilot a school-based intervention. This initiative aims to integrate chronic disease prevention and health promotion into the daily school routine.
The Classroom of Health initiative introduces healthy habits to 7- to 10-year-olds through a public-private collaboration. From February to June 2025, the programme will reach 800 pupils in 15 primary schools across Subotica, Leskovac and Čačak.
Each week, children participate in two guided physical activity sessions and one nutrition education class, all designed to fit seamlessly into the school day and inspire lifelong healthy habits.
The programme is already building momentum. A recent event in the village of Slatina brought together 150 students and drew strong local media coverage, highlighting growing public interest and community support.
“Children today spend more and more time sitting – often in front of screens,” said one project coordinator. “By bringing movement and nutrition into the classroom, we’re giving them the tools to grow up healthier and more resilient.”
Teachers have embraced the initiative, noting high levels of engagement and excitement among students. “Through education and play, we’re helping build healthy habits that last,” added the project co-ordinator, “And the children are leading the way.”
The initiative will be accompanied by an evaluation framework to track changes in children’s physical activity levels, eating behaviours and health knowledge. These insights will help refine the programme and guide expansion across the country.
With strong participation and early enthusiasm from schools, Serbia is setting a new standard for schools to lead the way in building healthier futures for children.
1. World Obesity Federation. World Obesity Atlas 2023. 2023. https://www.worldobesity.org/resources/resource-library/world-obesity-atlas-2023
2. World Obesity Federation (WOF). World Obesity Atlas 2024. 2024. https://data.worldobesity.org/publications/WOF-Obesity-Atlas-v7.pdf
