Kaimosi Friends University, through its Department of Optometry and Vision Sciences, has intensified community health interventions in Vihiga County with free eye screening and treatment outreaches that have benefited more than 282 learners and residents in one week.
Led by optometrist Phenard Odero, the University’s School of Health Sciences team conducted a comprehensive eye care exercise at Stanley Godia JSS and Secondary School in Hamisi Sub-county.
More than 200 community members were screened. Nine people received free prescription spectacles, 167 people were issued with free eye medication for conditions such as infections and allergies, and six cases with cataracts and other complex conditions were referred to County and Referral hospitals for specialized care.
The outreach moved to Givogi Primary School on May 29, 2026. A total of 82 learners were examined, treated, and educated on eye hygiene. Several pupils who had been struggling to read the chalkboard or textbooks were fitted with spectacles for the first time.
Teachers said the intervention came at the right time since schools were preparing for national assessments.
Odero, the lead optometrist, said that poor vision is a silent barrier to learning.
Many children are labeled ‘slow learners’ when the real issue is that they simply cannot see and by correcting vision early, they are directly improving retention and performance.
The University noted that refractive errors, infections, and allergic conjunctivitis are the most common eye problems recorded during the county outreaches.
Officials said the programme combines clinical service with health education, teaching learners and parents basic eye care, the importance of regular checkups and dangers of self-medication.
Odero said that the ongoing Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiative is already transforming lives in Vihiga, Kakamega, Migori and Homa Bay counties and through eye screening, diagnosis, treatment and referrals, the programme is helping restore sight, improve learning outcomes and enhance quality of life for hundreds of beneficiaries.
Beyond service delivery, the exercise doubled as practical training for Kaimosi Friends University optometry students.
Odero said that their students are gaining hands-on experience in patient assessment, refraction, dispensing, and community health education under supervision.
He added that they are proud to see their optometry students making a real difference in the community, while gaining skills that will shape them into competent professionals.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), uncorrected refractive errors affect 12 million children aged 5-15 globally and contribute to poor school performance.
Locally, Vihiga County health officials have cited limited access to eye care services as a challenge, especially in rural subcounties like Hamisi.
The University reaffirmed its commitment to align training, research and innovation with community needs.
He noted that plans are underway to expand the outreach to more primary and secondary schools, as well as market centers in the next phase.
by Quinter Isoyi and Maureen Imbayi
