By Agbo Christian Obiora
In a groundbreaking move that underscores a deep commitment to inclusive governance and accessible healthcare, Osun State Governor, Senator Ademola Adeleke, has announced that over 42,000 visually impaired pupils and students in public primary and secondary schools have received free corrective eyeglasses, essential medications, and, where necessary, surgical interventions.
This bold initiative, aimed at addressing visual impairments that could hinder students’ academic performance and future aspirations, is part of the governor’s broader efforts to enhance healthcare accessibility and quality in the state.
Governor Adeleke made the revelation in Osogbo, the Osun State Capital, during the symbolic presentation of corrective eyeglasses and drugs to beneficiaries. The event also featured the distribution of multi-million naira worth of medical equipment to Osun Health Insurance Scheme (OHIS) accredited government hospitals, further demonstrating the administration’s dedication to strengthening healthcare infrastructure.
Massive Eye Care Intervention for Pupils
According to a statement released by the governor’s spokesperson, Olawale Rasheed, on Wednesday, the free eye care intervention was carried out as part of a statewide screening program targeting pupils and students in Osun’s public schools.
Out of a staggering 345,000 pupils and students screened, 42,000 were diagnosed with varying degrees of visual impairments and have since benefited from necessary medical interventions, including the provision of free corrective eyeglasses, essential medications, and surgical treatments where needed.
Governor Adeleke emphasized that the initiative is just the beginning, as his administration plans to extend the program to private schools to ensure that no child in Osun State is left behind due to preventable or treatable visual impairments.
“This is not just about giving out glasses; it is about giving our children the chance to see their future clearly. No child should have their dreams cut short because of an eye problem that can be corrected,” Governor Adeleke declared.
Revamping Healthcare: Multi-Million Naira Medical Equipment Distributed
Beyond addressing visual health, the governor also unveiled a significant investment in Osun’s healthcare system by distributing advanced medical equipment to accredited government health facilities under the Osun Health Insurance Scheme (OHIS).
According to Governor Adeleke, the state government procured these essential medical tools to ensure that all OHIS enrollees receive world-class medical care. The governor reiterated his administration’s resolve to revitalize the health sector, ensuring that quality healthcare is not a privilege but a right for every resident.
“Our administration remains resolute in revitalizing the health sector. In fulfillment of our promises, we have fully approved the training allowance for resident doctors and implemented the full COMMESS and CONHESS salary structures for health workers, ensuring they receive their entitlements promptly,” Adeleke stated.
Highlighting ongoing reforms, he revealed that 200 out of the 332 focal Primary Health Centres in the state have already been modernized, with plans to upgrade the remaining ones soon.
Healthcare Access for Vulnerable Groups: PWDs, Pensioners, and the Elderly Benefit
Governor Adeleke further disclosed that in line with his inclusive governance approach, the state government has made significant strides in expanding healthcare access for Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) and senior citizens.
- 10,000 PWDs have been enrolled into the Osun Health Insurance Scheme (OHIS) at no cost.
- Thousands of assistive devices have been distributed, including motorized and manual wheelchairs, crutches, hearing aids, walking sticks, talking watches, ultraviolet creams, umbrellas, and eyeglasses.
- Over 25,000 pensioners have been registered under the OHIS free-of-charge, ensuring that the elderly population receives quality healthcare services without financial burdens.
“In the spirit of inclusivity, we are ensuring that no one is left behind in our healthcare revolution. Whether young or old, disabled or able-bodied, rich or poor, every resident of Osun deserves quality medical care,” the governor affirmed.
A New Dawn in Osun’s Healthcare Sector
Governor Adeleke’s healthcare interventions are a testament to his administration’s unwavering commitment to equity, inclusion, and people-centered governance. The combination of free eye care for students, medical equipment upgrades, and expanded healthcare access for vulnerable groups signals a transformative shift in Osun State’s public health landscape.
Stakeholders, civil society groups, and healthcare professionals have lauded the governor’s initiatives, describing them as unprecedented and life-changing. Many believe these efforts will not only improve the overall well-being of residents but also position Osun State as a model for inclusive and accessible healthcare in Nigeria.
As the government rolls out more interventions, residents of Osun can now look to the future with renewed hope, assured that their health, dignity, and well-being remain a top priority for the Adeleke administration.
For the 42,000 pupils and students who can now see more clearly, the message is simple: A brighter future is ahead, and Osun State is ensuring that nothing stands in their way.
