Sindh Govt cracks down on mobile phone use in schools

KARACHI: The Sindh Education Department has launched a province-wide eye screening programme for students in government schools, aimed at addressing growing concerns about the effects of mobile phone use on children’s eyesight.

A formal directive has been sent to all district education offices, directing school heads to fully cooperate in the screening campaign. A No Objection Certificate (NOC) has also been issued to a non-governmental organisation (NGO) authorised to conduct eye tests.

Under the initiative, students from all districts will undergo free eye tests. Children suffering from vision problems will be given prescription glasses at no cost.

Dr. Fawzia Khan, Chief Advisor, Curriculum Wing, stressed the urgent need for the initiative. “Mobile phone use is affecting children’s eyesight. School heads should ensure full cooperation so that children can be protected from long-term vision loss,” she said.

Experts say vision problems such as nearsightedness and farsightedness often go unnoticed in children, especially in underserved areas where access to eye care is limited. Undiagnosed vision problems can significantly affect a child’s academic performance and daily life.

Health professionals have repeatedly called for mandatory vision screening at school entry to ensure early diagnosis and treatment.