A Collaborative Initiative by HUMSA and the Cultural and Student Services Committee of the Herat Faculty of Medicine, Herat University
In line with efforts to strengthen preventive healthcare and enhance practical medical education, HUMSA (Herat University Medical Students Association), in collaboration with the Cultural and Student Services Committee of the Herat Faculty of Medicine, successfully conducted a workshop on eye screening for visual impairment in school children.
The workshop was held at Herat Teaching Hospital, which is affiliated with the Herat Faculty of Medicine, Herat University. Nearly 100 medical students participated in this training workshop, gaining essential knowledge and practical skills related to child eye health and vision screening. The primary objective of this workshop was to prepare medical students for upcoming school-based eye screening activities. Through this initiative, the trained students aim to screen approximately 1,500 school children, contributing to early detection of visual impairment and timely referral for further management.
Workshop Content
The workshop included both theoretical and practical sessions, covering:
- Overview of visual impairment and child eye health
- Common eye and vision disorders in school-aged children
- Principles and techniques of eye screening
- Proper use of basic screening tools
- Referral pathways for children requiring further ophthalmic evaluation
- Ethical considerations and effective communication with children
The sessions were facilitated by experienced faculty members and healthcare professionals, ensuring high-quality instruction and active student engagement.
Importance of School Eye Screening in Afghanistan
In Afghanistan, a significant number of school children with visual impairment remain undiagnosed due to limited access to eye care services and the absence of routine screening programs. Uncorrected vision problems can negatively affect learning capacity, school performance, and long-term educational outcomes. School-based eye screening is therefore a vital public health intervention, enabling early identification, prevention of avoidable visual impairment, and improved educational opportunities for children.
Strengthening Medical Education Through Collaboration
This workshop highlights the importance of collaboration between student organizations and academic committees in promoting community-oriented medical education. By working together, HUMSA and the Cultural and Student Services Committee of the Herat Faculty of Medicine continue to support the professional development of medical students while addressing key public health priorities. Following this training workshop, a school-based eye screening campaign will be conducted the next day, during which the trained medical students will apply their newly acquired skills in real field settings. This campaign represents the practical implementation of the workshop outcomes and reflects HUMSA’s commitment to translating training into meaningful community health action.
Saturday, 25 October 2025
Publications & Communications Committee
Herat University Medical Students’ Association – HUMSA
Herat Faculty of Medicine
Herat University
