World Sight Day 2025

Bhutan:

With support from Cure Blindness Project and the World Health Organization, Bhutan's Ministry of Health is working towards the launch of a new five-year National Eye Health Strategy—an essential step toward building sustainable, coordinated eye care systems nationwide.

This aligns with our long-standing commitment to Bhutan, where we have served as the primary eye health NGO for more than 20 years. 

Nepal:

In Nepal, we are supporting community and school-based eye screenings across underserved areas. These estimated tens of thousands of screenings will help diagnose vision challenges early and connect patients to appropriate care. In addition, more than 100 radio PSAs promoting eye health awareness will air on Nepal radio in the weeks surrounding World Sight Day.

India: 

Investing in eye health has profound economic and social benefits. Data from a recent SROI study shows that $1 USD invested translates to $7.30 in social return. 

In addition, our teams will conduct multiple school-based eye screenings in Uttar Pradesh, reaching 1,000 children with limited access to care, reinforcing the importance of preventive eye health, and demonstrating a scalable model for other communities. 

Ethiopia: 

In the first half of 2025, we directly supported more than half (55%) of the total 36,400 cataract surgeries performed in the country. Since January, with partners, we have restored sight through 20,648 surgeries.

Ghana:

We recently organized a three-day training program for 25 ophthalmic nurses from five regions in Ghana. This initiative marks a significant step in strengthening the capacity of primary care personnel—often the first point of contact for individuals with eye health concerns, especially in underserved rural communities. Read more about this pilot program. 

South Sudan:

Alongside The Carter Center, the Ophthalmological Association of South Sudan, the Ministry of Health, and Christian Blind Mission, we have launched a comprehensive strategy to expand eye care access nationwide. A cornerstone of this strategy is a new Ophthalmic Clinical Officer (OCO) Training Program that equips mid-level health workers to perform cataract surgeries and manage common eye conditions.