October 10, (THEWILL) — The Taraba State Government has officially launched the School Eye Health Programme, a new initiative aimed at promoting early detection and management of vision problems among schoolchildren across the state.
The programme was unveiled in Jalingo during the commemoration of the 2025 World Sight Day, organised by the Nigerian Optometric Association (NOA), Taraba State Chapter, in collaboration with the Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education and other partners.
The Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education, Dr Augustina Godwin, who made the official launch, praised the NOA for its sustained advocacy and contribution to public health in Taraba, urging the Association to interface with the Ministry for further discussion on the implementation plan.
She emphasised that the initiative aligns with the state government’s vision to improve education outcomes through better health and well-being.
“Education can only thrive when learners have good eyesight. This programme is not just about eye care; it is about securing the future of our children by ensuring that no one is left behind due to avoidable vision problems”, Dr Godwin said.
She urged parents, teachers, and school administrators to take active interest in the vision health of children and to seek professional attention whenever visual difficulties are noticed.
This year’s global theme “Love Your Eyes”, underscores the importance of eye health and the collective responsibility of individuals, families, and governments to safeguard vision.
In her earlier remarks, the Chairperson of NOA Taraba Chapter, Dr Grace Ahams Akor, explained that the annual observance of World Sight Day serves as a global reminder of the need to prioritise eye health through preventive care, education, and access to professional services.
“Many cases of visual impairment are preventable if detected early. The School Eye Health Programme is a timely and commendable intervention that will ensure schoolchildren get the attention they need before minor eye problems become lifelong challenges”, Dr Grace stated.
She applauded the Taraba State Government for championing the programme, describing it as a “landmark achievement” in the state’s healthcare advancement.
Dr Akor also commended the Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education and other stakeholders for their collaboration in promoting the initiative.
However, she called on the government to employ more optometrists to bridge the shortage of qualified professionals in the state, especially in rural areas where access to eye care remains limited.
“Our biggest challenge is manpower. To achieve the goals of this initiative, we need more hands and continuous support from government and development partners. Taraba state has very few optometrists catering for the eye care of its many affected citizens but with the need for increased awareness on eye care, we need more hands on deck”, she appealed.
In separate goodwill messages, stakeholders from the health and education sectors, as well as civil society organisations, commended the initiative, describing it as a model that could be replicated in other states.
They emphasised that eye health should be integrated into broader public health planning to ensure sustainability.
