Sightsavers

Overview

Sightsavers is an international non-governmental organization that works to prevent avoidable blindness, support equality for people with disabilities, and advocate for the rights of individuals with visual impairments. Founded in 1950, Sightsavers operates in over 30 countries across Africa, Asia, and the Caribbean.

History

Sightsavers was established by Sir John Wilson, a British philanthropist who was blinded in a laboratory accident at the age of 12. The organization was originally known as the British Empire Society for the Blind. Over the years, it has expanded its mission and reach, becoming a leading advocate for eye health and disability rights worldwide.

Mission and Objectives

Sightsavers' mission is to eliminate avoidable blindness and promote the rights of people with disabilities. The organization focuses on:

• Providing eye care services, including surgeries and treatments for conditions such as cataracts and trachoma.
• Distributing medications to prevent diseases like river blindness and lymphatic filariasis.
• Supporting inclusive education and employment opportunities for people with disabilities.
• Advocating for policy changes to improve access to healthcare and education for marginalized communities.

Programs and Initiatives

Sightsavers implements a variety of programs aimed at improving eye health and supporting disability rights. Key initiatives include:

Eye Health

Sightsavers works to improve access to eye care services by training healthcare professionals, establishing eye care facilities, and conducting outreach programs in remote areas. The organization also provides surgeries and treatments for common eye conditions.

Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs)

Sightsavers is involved in the distribution of medications to combat NTDs such as river blindness and trachoma. The organization collaborates with governments and other NGOs to implement mass drug administration programs.

Inclusive Education

Sightsavers promotes inclusive education by supporting schools in adapting their curricula and facilities to accommodate students with disabilities. The organization also provides training for teachers and advocates for policy changes to ensure equal access to education.

Advocacy and Policy

Sightsavers engages in advocacy efforts to influence policy changes at local, national, and international levels. The organization works to ensure that the rights of people with disabilities are recognized and protected in legislation and development programs.

Partnerships and Collaborations

Sightsavers collaborates with a range of partners, including governments, other NGOs, and international organizations. These partnerships are crucial for scaling up programs and reaching more beneficiaries. Sightsavers is also a member of several global health and disability networks.

Funding and Support

Sightsavers is funded through donations from individuals, corporations, and foundations. The organization also receives grants from governments and international agencies. Transparency and accountability are key principles in Sightsavers' financial management.

Impact and Achievements

Sightsavers has made significant contributions to reducing the prevalence of avoidable blindness and improving the lives of people with disabilities. The organization has supported millions of eye surgeries, distributed billions of treatments for NTDs, and advocated for policy changes that benefit marginalized communities.

See Also

• Blindness
• Disability rights movement
• Neglected tropical diseases
• Inclusive education