ONGWEDIVA – More than 500 school-going learners in Oshana region are expected to benefit from a free eye-screening campaign at the Oshakati Intermediate Hospital Eye Clinic. 

The learners diagnosed with refractive vision problems will receive eyeglasses at no cost. 

The campaign, which started on 19 January ended last Thursday. 

The campaign was organised by the health ministry in collaboration with Ethical Eye Vision and an NGO from Britain. 

It targets learners aged between eight and 19 years. 

Renowned eye specialist Dr Helena Ndume said the initiative is aimed at improving learners’ eyesight to enhance their academic performance, adding that early detection of eye problems can change a child’s learning experience. 

She said more than 450 learners had already been screened, with most requiring corrective glasses, and the team expected to reach over 500 learners by the end of the campaign. 

Learners with severe or complicated conditions, she added, will be referred to Windhoek for specialised treatment. 

Ndume further cautioned parents against excessive cell phone use among young children, warning that prolonged screen exposure is contributing to increased cases of short-sightedness. 

She explained that focusing on cellphone screens at close range for long periods can cause the eye to grow longer over time, resulting in blurred distance vision. 

She encouraged parents to engage children through reading, play, and regular eye check-ups, noting that some eye conditions are present from birth and should not be blamed on the child. 

The parents of beneficiaries expressed relief and gratitude, saying the screening had brought hope and support to families who struggle to access eye care. 

A mother from Oshakati, whose child received glasses during the campaign, said the intervention would make a noticeable difference in her child’s schooling. 

“I used to worry because my child always complained about headaches and could not see the board properly. Today she was screened and given glasses, and I feel relieved because now she will be able to follow lessons like other learners,” she said. 

Another mother from Okaku village said the free screening had lifted a heavy financial burden, especially for rural families who cannot afford private eye services. 

She said the campaign helped her understand her child’s condition and the importance of early eye care. 

“This programme has helped us a lot. We usually ignore these problems because we do not have money for eye tests. Now my child has been checked, and I feel happy knowing that she will get the help she needs,” she said. 

– vkaapanda@nepc.com.na