The Nigeria Optometrist Association (NOA) has highlighted the pressing issue of uncorrected vision problems in children, urging immediate action to prevent long-term educational and psychological setbacks.
This was emphasized during the flag-off of a free visual screening program in celebration of World Sight Day 2024.
Refractive errors, such as nearsightedness and farsightedness, are some of the most common yet easily treatable eye conditions affecting children globally. If left uncorrected, these vision problems can severely hinder a child’s academic performance and self-esteem, noted Dr. Grace Ahams-Akor, the state chairperson of NOA.
“Clear vision is essential for a child’s success in the classroom and beyond,” Dr. Ahams-Akor explained, adding that children who struggle with undiagnosed vision problems may find it hard to read, write, or participate in everyday activities, leading to lower self-confidence and social anxiety.
Through the free screening program, NOA aims to identify children with vision problems, provide them with appropriate glasses, and offer further treatments when necessary.
“We are not just screening for the sake of it. We’re giving these children the tools they need to thrive in school and in life,” she emphasized.
To expand the reach of the initiative, NOA is collaborating with the Taraba State Ministry of Health and other stakeholders to ensure schools in rural and underserved areas are included.
Dr. Ahams-Akor stressed that eye health should be part of a child’s yearly health checkup, as a simple pair of glasses can transform a child’s learning experience.
The Commissioner of Health, Dr Bordiya G. Buma, commended the efforts and assured that the state government would continue supporting the initiative under the leadership of Governor Agbu Kefas.
“Regular eye checkups and timely interventions can make a world of difference for our children,” he said, urging parents to take advantage of the free screenings.
