In a major effort to improve child healthcare, the Osun State Government has provided free eye care services to more than 42,000 students in public primary and secondary schools.
The initiative, known as the “Imole Eye Health Programme”, was implemented by the Osun State Health Insurance Agency (OSHIA) in collaboration with the Ministry of Education.
It focused on enhancing eye health among schoolchildren by offering free screenings, surgeries, prescription glasses, and essential medications.
Before receiving treatment, all beneficiaries underwent thorough eye examinations in their respective schools.
Students diagnosed with refractive errors were provided with spectacles, while those requiring further medical attention received necessary medications.
Speaking on the success of the initiative, Dr. Rasaq Akindele, Executive Secretary of Osun Health Insurance Agency, expressed satisfaction with the overwhelming turnout, noting that the number of beneficiaries far 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 also emphasized the government’s commitment to preventing avoidable blindness among children in Osun State and commended parents for allowing their wards to participate in the program.
The initiative was carried out simultaneously across different zones of the state, including Ede, Ikirun, Iwo, and Ila.
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 and prayed for his continued success.
This initiative reinforces the Osun State Government’s commitment to quality healthcare and the welfare of its young population.
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