Identifying vision-impaired children and directing them for treatment
POLGASOWITA
Zone 2
Region 4
2026-04-06
Vidyadeepa Vidyalaya
An eye screening camp was successfully organized at Vidyadeepa Vidyalaya, Mattegoda, where approximately 320 students were screened, ensuring early identification of vision-related issues that could otherwise impact their learning and development. The camp was generously sponsored by Lion Jayantha Abeygunarathna, Chairman of George Gunarathna Optometrists, whose continued commitment to community eye care is highly commendable.
Child eye screening is of critical importance globally. According to the World Health Organization, at least 2.2 billion people worldwide have a vision impairment, and nearly half of these cases are preventable or yet to be addressed. Studies indicate that approximately 19 million children are visually impaired, with uncorrected refractive errors being the leading cause. Early detection through school screening programs plays a vital role in preventing long-term vision problems, improving academic performance, and enhancing overall quality of life.