By Dennis Bett
The County Government of Uasin Gishu in collaboration with the Ministry of Health, the Ministry of Education and Operation Eye Sight Universal has launched an eye care centre for primary school pupils.
The move is aimed at screening eye sight related problems and offering pupils free treatment so as to restore sight and prevent blindness in primary school pupils within the county.
Speaking during the launch of the programme, Dr Fatuma Some, who spoke on behalf of the board chairperson of Operation Eye Sight Universal, talked of their commitment to offer solutions to eye care problems arguing that with healthy eyes and good visuals, pupils are in a better position to achieve their dreams through good academic performances.
“This is one of our life transforming projects .The School Eye Health Programme is aimed at solving persistent eye problems that pupils face. When people suffer from poor eye health, their quality of life is diminished and the cycle of poverty is perpetuated,” Dr Fatuma said.
Dr. Some added that pupils have the right to sight, right to education and right to a self-fulfilling environment.
She revealed that through the programme, they have trained over 20 teachers who have so far screened 40,000 learners.
‘2,200 have been referred for specialized treatment at the Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital (MTRH), five have undergone specialized surgery successfully and 95 have received free eye glasses.’ She said.
Uasin Gishu County Executive Member for Health Dr. Evelyne Rotich said that their collaboration with Operation Eye Sight Universal began in March, 2016.
“About 110, 000 persons have so far been screened in three out of the six sub counties. 70,000 have received various forms of interventions, ranging from surgeries to optical services. The Operation Eye Sight Universal support has been vital in promoting eye healthcare in the County and will have a lasting impact at the end,”Dr Rotich added.
Dr. Michael Gichangi, an Ophthalmologist at the Ministry of Health, said that it is crucial to invest in restoring people’s eyesight.
“We support programs that provide quality care to everyone regardless of age and gender. When people urgently receive the much needed eye health care, the entire community become healthier and more resilient,” Dr Gichangi noted.
Uasin Gishu Governor, Jackson Mandago said that such programmes promote healthcare among citizens.
The Governor added that eye screening services should be made easily available to all, particularly those in rural areas.
