Governor Ademola Adeleke of Osun State has announced that more than 42,000 pupils and students in public primary and secondary schools have received free corrective eyeglasses.
He said the eyeglasses will help them overcome vision impairments that could hinder their academic and personal growth.
Speaking in Osogbo during a symbolic presentation of corrective glasses and medications, Governor Adeleke revealed that out of 345,000 students screened for eye problems across the state, those identified with visual impairments have been provided with necessary interventions, including eyeglasses, essential medications, and, where needed, surgical procedures.
He emphasised that this initiative is currently focused on public schools as a pilot phase, with plans to extend it to private schools to ensure no child is left behind.
At the same event, the governor also unveiled newly acquired medical equipment worth millions of naira for government hospitals accredited under the Osun Health Insurance Scheme (OHIS).
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The equipment, secured through the Osun Health Insurance Agency (OSHIA), is aimed at enhancing healthcare services for enrollees.
Governor Adeleke reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to revitalizing the health sector.
He highlighted key achievements, including the full approval of training allowances for resident doctors, implementation of the full COMMESS and CONHESS salary structures for health workers, and the ongoing renovation of healthcare facilities across the state.
“In just two years, 200 out of 332 focal Primary Health Centres have been modernized, with the remaining ones set for upgrade soon,” Adeleke stated.
He also disclosed that over 25,000 pensioners have been enrolled in the Osun Health Insurance Scheme free of charge to guarantee quality healthcare for senior citizens.
Additionally, about 10,000 persons living with disabilities (PWDs) have been enrolled in OHIS, along with the distribution of thousands of assistive devices, including motorized wheelchairs, walking sticks, crutches, hearing aids, and eyeglasses.
The governor commended all stakeholders, particularly OSHIA and the Osun State Ministry of Education, for their collaborative efforts in ensuring the success of the programme.