ISLAMABAD: Vision problems among school-going children in Pakistan have reached alarming levels, with experts urging the government to take immediate action. On Monday, Al-Shifa Trust (AST) emphasized the urgent need to make eye screening a mandatory part of school admissions, ensuring early detection and treatment of vision-related issues.
Rising Concern Over Children’s Eye Health
Dr. Najam, General Manager at Al-Shifa Centre for Community Ophthalmology, highlighted the increasing number of vision problems among children, stating that 50-60% of school-going kids suffer from undiagnosed eye issues. He stressed that early treatment is essential to prevent lifelong vision loss and costly medical interventions later.
While numerous organizations provide eye care services, the overwhelming number of affected children demands a more structured and widespread approach. Pakistan’s child population stands at approximately 100 million, yet only a small percentage receives proper eye screening.
Why Eye Screening at School Admissions is Crucial
Many children with vision problems struggle academically and socially due to undiagnosed conditions. Poor eyesight directly impacts concentration, reading ability, and learning performance. Early diagnosis and correction can significantly improve their educational prospects and overall well-being.
However, several barriers hinder early detection, including:
✅ Lack of Awareness: Many parents and teachers fail to recognize early signs of vision issues.
✅ Financial Constraints: Not all families can afford regular eye check-ups.
✅ Limited Access to Eye Care: Rural areas, in particular, lack adequate eye screening facilities.
A Call for Action
Dr. Najam emphasized the need for a nationwide policy requiring all children to undergo vision screening before admission to schools. Such a move would:
🔹 Detect and address eye problems early
🔹 Improve learning outcomes
🔹 Reduce long-term healthcare costs
🔹 Promote overall well-being
With a rapidly growing population, addressing children’s vision problems must become a national priority. Policymakers, educational institutions, and healthcare providers must collaborate to implement mandatory eye screenings and raise awareness among parents.
Final Thoughts
Every child deserves the right to clear vision and a bright future. A simple eye test at the time of school admission can change lives and ensure that our future generations grow up healthy and capable of achieving their full potential.