Simple Surgery to restore Sight to Ethiopians

“I enjoy it. I’m happy when I help someone!” - Banchi (School Teacher from Gama Gofa, Southern Ethiopia)

To tackle the spread of trachoma in schools, Orbis trains teachers in primary eye care, and vision testing. This means they are able to refer pupils when they need glasses or spot the first signs of eye disease in school children.

As well as training teachers in basic primary eye care, Orbis has established school eye care clubs across Ethiopia, where students learn how to take good care of their eyes and what to do if their vision begins to deteriorate; and the importance of hygiene for good eye care.

Banchi has been teaching biology for five years in a secondary school in Gama Gofa, Southern Ethiopia.

Three years ago, she received training from Orbis in primary eye care, allowing her to diagnose eye conditions and refer students at the school she works in. She tells us she was trained on the signs and symptoms of trachoma, as well as other eye conditions such as cataract and refractive error. She enjoyed the training, and believes it helps the school she works in. Banchi has identified eleven cases of trachoma in the students she has screened, and referred them to the health centre where they received treatment.

“When I help a student they are happy,” she says. “Not just the students, but the community too!”

Banchi's role also includes managing the school eye care club – pupils join and learn about trachoma, eye care and the importance of good hygiene, and then share this knowledge among their peers, families and community.

Banchi’s role is an important one - she is making a real difference in the school. 

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