Osun State Government has launched a free eye screening, treatment, and management initiative, dubbed the “Imole Eye Health Programme”, which has benefited over 42,000 students across the state.
The programme, initiated by Governor Ademola Adeleke, provided prescription glasses, medications, and surgeries to students diagnosed with eye problems in multiple zones, including Ede, Ikirun, Iwo, and Ila-Orangun.
Meanwhile, as of mid-day, about 500 reading glasses had been distributed to the Students with eye problems across multiple zones of Ede, Ikirun, Iwo, and Ila-Orangun in the state while an impressive turnout was recorded.
The beneficiaries who commended the governor’s health initiative, tagged: “Imole Eye Health Programme, “also appreciated the Osun State Health Insurance Agency (OSHIA) and the Ministry of Education for complimenting the state governor’s efforts in making the program a successful one.
For instance, in all the schools, before beneficiaries received treatment, they went through copious eye screening in their respective schools.
Speaking with newsmen on the program, the Executive Secretary of OSHIA, Dr Rasaq Akindele, explained that the government put the program in place to discover Students with eye problems through free eye examinations and, at the same time provide them with eyeglasses, medications, and surgical interventions where necessary.
According to him, “This initiative underscores Governor Adeleke’s dedication to improving healthcare access for young citizens and reinforcing his administration’s commitment to the welfare of Osun’s children.”
He added that, “the programme was designed to prevent, reduce, and reverse avoidable blindness among children in the state and commended parents for allowing their children to participate, underscoring the urgent need for such interventions.”
“This exercise has revealed that many students are struggling with eye conditions that require attention. We are committed to ensuring that every diagnosed child receives the necessary care,” he assured.
Dr. Akindele, who disclosed that the initial target of 25,000 students was significantly exceeded, with over 42,000 students ultimately benefiting from the initiative, expressed happiness that a large turnout was recorded during the programme.
Two beneficiaries, Adetunji Favour and Shuaib Nafisat, who spoke on behalf of other students, commended the initiative of the government on the program and prayed for the Adeleke-led administration in the state to be more successful at the corridor of power.
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