The Nigerian Optometric Association has called on the government to make it compulsory for schools to include eye test reports as part of their admission process.
The association during a walk to commemorate the 2024 world sight day in abuja noted that early detection of vision problems is critical in ensuring children receive timely treatment, preventing complications that could hinder their academic and social development.
World Sight Day is celebrated globally to raise awareness on eye health and preventable blindness.
In commemoration of the day, the Optometry Association in FCT organized a road walk, with participants highlighting the need for Nigerians to prioritize their vision health.
Speaking at the event, the association’s representatives stressed the importance of regular eye tests, especially for children, in order to detect and treat vision problems early.
The group also conducted free eye screenings for students of Government Secondary School, Garki, Abuja. Several students were tested, and those in need of corrective measures were given appropriate guidance on the next steps.
The association also called on the government to make it compulsory for schools to include an eye test report as part of the admission process.
This they said would help identify vision problems early, ensuring children receive timely treatment to avoid complications that may hinder their academic and social development.
This call comes in line with this year’s theme for eye health awareness, ‘Love Your Eyes Kids,’ which emphasizes the importance of caring for children’s eye health from a young age.
(Editor : Ena Agbanoma)