The Kabgayi Referral Centre in Eye Care is at the forefront of transforming education and healthcare in Rwanda through its dedicated focus on student eye health.
In an exclusive interview with ICK News, Dr. Theophile Tuyisabe, the hospital’s director, sheds light on their pioneering “Ubuvuzi Budaheza” program, designed to deliver comprehensive eye care to students, especially those in boarding schools.
Dr. Tuyisabe explains that the decision to prioritize student eye care stemmed from the realization that many patients at the hospital were students whose academic performance suffered due to untreated eye conditions. The “Ubuvuzi Budaheza” program was thus conceived to intervene and support students in their educational journey.
“Our analysis revealed a significant portion of our patients are students, highlighting the urgent need to ensure their academic success,” emphasizes Dr. Theophile.
The primary challenge identified was the difficulty students faced in accessing traditional hospital-based care, particularly boarding school students who often lacked the means to seek treatment independently.
In response, the hospital mobilized resources to bring eye care services directly to the students’ doorstep.
Through strategic outreach efforts and on-site screenings, the hospital’s dedicated team of doctors identified a spectrum of eye ailments affecting students, ranging from common issues like red eyes to more complex conditions requiring surgical intervention. No student’s needs were left unattended.
“Many students suffer from serious eye conditions requiring surgery, yet lack awareness of potential side effects. It’s crucial to reach and treat these students as we’ve identified a significant number in need of urgent care,” stresses Dr. Tuyisabe.
Since its inception, the program has provided treatment to nine thousand students across various institutions, including those from affluent backgrounds who, despite being healthy, were found to have undiagnosed eye conditions.
Moreover, the program extends beyond medical treatment to encompass education and community engagement. Dr. Theophile emphasizes the need for continued support and collaboration from all stakeholders to ensure every student receives the care they need to thrive academically and beyond.
“We require the collaboration of additional partners due to the extensive workload and capacity requirements. Specifically, we need assistance in supporting children during medical procedures and providing training for teachers and parents on proper care techniques,” underscores Dr. Theophile.
The concerted efforts to improve healthcare for students globally have yielded significant changes, resulting in healthier lives and reduced dropout rates, according to Dr. Theophile.
Implemented across all schools within the Diocese of Kabgayi, encompassing districts such as Kamonyi, Muhanga, Ruhango, and a section of the Nyanza district, the project has commenced treating numerous children afflicted with various illnesses. With a focus on comprehensive care, the hospital anticipates a reduction in the number of sick children this year, thanks to effective treatment protocols and an emphasis on productivity.
By extending its services to schools across the diocese, the hospital aims to address the health needs of a wide range of students. Through proactive treatment and support, the hospital endeavors to foster a healthier student population, thereby promoting greater productivity and minimizing disruptions to academic pursuits.