The Sindh Education Department has launched a province-wide eye screening initiative targeting students in government schools to address preventable vision issues and enhance academic performance.
In many areas, financial hardship and limited access to care leave vision problems unaddressed. This new program marks a critical step toward making eye health a priority in the education system, with experts advocating for mandatory screenings at the time of school enrollment.
A directive has been issued to all district education offices, instructing school heads to extend full cooperation. A No Objection Certificate (NOC) has been granted to a non-governmental organization (NGO) authorized to conduct the screenings.
Under the program, students in all districts will receive eye examinations, with free eyeglasses provided to those diagnosed with vision problems. The initiative aims to facilitate early detection of eye conditions and promote better eye health among schoolchildren.
Dr. Fouzia Khan, Chief Advisor of the Curriculum Wing, expressed concern over increased screen exposure among children. “Mobile phone use is contributing to deteriorating eyesight. School leaders must ensure their full support to protect students from long-term vision impairment,” she stated.
Medical professionals emphasize the importance of routine eye exams to detect conditions such as nearsightedness, farsightedness, and other visual impairments that can significantly hinder learning.
