Antigua and Barbuda will screen 10,000 students for vision problems under an expanded eye care programme. Additionally, the programme will provide more than 400 free eye surgeries this year.

Director General of Communications Maurice Merchant shared the update during Thursday’s post-Cabinet briefing.

Merchant said the Cabinet received a presentation from Health Minister Michael Joseph. The presentation focused on efforts to expand eye care services through regional and international partnerships.

Meanwhile, a team of specialist doctors from the Trinidad Eye Hospital is currently in Antigua and Barbuda.

The doctors are providing surgeries and other eye care services. The programme operates through a partnership involving the Sir Lester Bird Medical Centre and the Medical Benefits Scheme.

“This year’s mission is expected to deliver more than 400 eye surgeries,” Merchant said.

According to Merchant, the surgeries will help people with several vision-related conditions.

At the same time, officials expanded the programme to include school screenings across Antigua.

Under the initiative, 6,000 primary school students will receive eye examinations. In addition, 4,000 secondary school students will also undergo screenings.

Merchant explained that the programme aims to identify vision problems early.

As a result, students with visual impairments can receive treatment and corrective support sooner.

Officials believe the initiative could also improve educational outcomes for students across the country.

Furthermore, Merchant announced that free eyeglasses should arrive later this week and into next week.

The eyeglasses will come through the Prime Minister’s Vision Initiative.

The programme also operates with support from international non-governmental organizations. These include Restoring Vision and Vision Spring.

Meanwhile, officials continue working to improve access to eye care services throughout Antigua and Barbuda.

The expanded programme forms part of broader efforts to strengthen healthcare support and early medical intervention for residents.