Over 42,000 Students Benefit From Osun Govt’s Free Eye Care Services

Over 42,000 Students Benefit From Osun Govt’s Free Eye Care Services

In a significant stride toward enhancing child healthcare, the Osun State Government has provided free eye care services to more than 42,000 students across public primary and secondary schools.

The initiative, tagged the “Imole Eye Health Programme”, was spearheaded by the Osun State Health Insurance Agency (OSHIA) in collaboration with the Ministry of Education. The program aimed to improve eye health among school children by offering free eye screenings, surgeries, prescription glasses, and essential medications.

Prior to receiving treatment, all beneficiaries underwent comprehensive eye examinations in their respective schools. Reports indicate that students diagnosed with refractive errors were provided with spectacles, while those requiring further medical attention received necessary medications.

Speaking on the impact of the initiative, the Executive Secretary of OSHIA, Dr. Rasaq Akindele, expressed satisfaction with the massive turnout, noting that the number of beneficiaries exceeded initial projections.

“We initially planned for 25,000 students, but data now shows that over 42,000 have benefited from this free eye care program. Despite the unexpected numbers, we are committed to ensuring that every child receives the required care,” Dr. Akindele stated.

He further emphasized the government’s commitment to preventing avoidable blindness among children in Osun State and appreciated parents for allowing their wards to participate in the exercise.

The program was simultaneously conducted across different zones of the state, including Ede, Ikirun, Iwo, and Ila zones.

Expressing their gratitude, some of the beneficiaries, Adetunji Favour and Shuaib Nafisat, thanked Governor Ademola Adeleke for prioritizing the well-being of children in the state, praying for his continued success.

This initiative reaffirms the Osun State Government’s dedication to quality healthcare and the welfare of its young population.