Training Teachers in Ethiopia to Save Sight

Orbis is committed to treating and preventing blindness in the poorest regions of the world. One of the most effective ways of doing this is by training local health care workers how to screen patients for diseases like trachoma and perform vital surgeries.

Trachoma is a bacterial eye infection that can spread from person to person through contact with contaminated hands, clothing and flies. After repeated infections, it can develop into trichiasis, in which the eyelids turn inwards so the lashes scrape the cornea. This can lead to permanent blindness.

29-year-old Nigatu Habtamu, from Gamo Gofa, southern Ethiopia, worked as a general nurse for over six years before deciding to help in the fight against trachoma. He participated in a month long Orbis training program and during the practical training, Nigatu showed his dedication by conducting over 31 surgeries in just 20 days. This left the trainers mesmerized.  

Nigatu became a certified surgeon in 2015 and has served in many health centres in Gamo Gofa since his training.

Orbis performs regular assessments on the quality of data and the surgeries conducted by surgeons across project areas. During one such assessment, it was shown that each surgery Nigatu has conducted has been smooth and free of complication.

Thanks to your ongoing support for this project, we can continue to train individuals like Nigatu to perform the highest quality sight-saving surgeries and eliminate trachoma in Ethiopia.