Promoting Eye Health in Local Communities
Jakarta, 31 May – As five of our BINUS University International students: Arish Madataly (Computer Science) from Madagascar, Abas Hassan Iman (Computer Science) from Somalia, and Bunleap Sorn (Computer Science), Viriya Savoeun (Computer Science), and Dalen En (Graphic Design and New Media) from Cambodia approach their graduation, they do not want to waste their time in ensuring their remaining time in the country have meaning.
With an estimate that 1 million children under 15 years old in the world had irreversible blindness (Ophthalmol, 2022), five of them realized it’s an opportunity to raise awareness about eye health through the Ambassadorship Project, a community development initiative supported by BINUS University that aims to bridge international students and develop meaningful community-based projects.
(Photo Credit: Marcelino Yappy/Photo Editor: Mufti Warits)
The project took them to Rumah Hati Suci orphanage in Jakarta. Working with local optometrists, the team facilitated free vision screenings, offering at least 30 children their very first eye exam. They also led an educational game-based workshop focused on digital eye strain and the importance of screen breaks.
“This event made me more grateful for my life,” shared Elysia, a volunteer at Rumah Hati Suci.
Vision specialists agree that the early childhood years are a critical window for visual development. Often, it takes a simple checkup or a change of glasses to remind them of the habits that can prevent long-term vision problems.
(Photo Credit: Marcelino Yappy/Photo Editor: Mufti Warits)
Through impactful yet straightforward actions like eye screenings and health education, Arish and his team have made a meaningful contribution to improving children’s well-being, not only by addressing a critical area of health, but also by creating space for dialogue, awareness, and care, embodying the university’s mission to empower communities and build a more inclusive society.
It’s a wonder when one child put on her new glasses and exclaimed, “Now I can see the board!”
In Indonesia, over 3.6 million children suffer from vision problems due to refractive errors, and the number is on the rise. Shockingly, 3 out of 4 children haven’t received glasses. A lack of early detection and appropriate care may exacerbate the condition, leading to vision loss.
(Photo Credit: Marcelino Yappy/Photo Editor: Mufti Warits)
“It was amazing to see how excited they got! It’s clear that learning through play helped the message stay with them,” said Jeff Matthew Hadisaputro, one of the students who joined the activity.
Lastly, the Ambassador Project offers an engaging opportunity for international students to make a meaningful impact on society. The project provided students with the opportunity to identify issues and develop a program tailored to their capabilities.
(Words by: Hamzah Ramadhan & Mita Adhisti/Editor: Hamzah Ramadhan)