the solution

Vision for a Nation is using innovative adjustable eyeglasses and ready-made reading glasses, both of which can be distributed by trained health workers.

Two types of adjustable lens technology are currently being used: fluid-filled and Alvarez lenses. With both technologies, the power of each lens can be adjusted independently to suit the needs of the user; turn the dials to change the power of the lens and once clear vision is attained, fix the power and the eyeglasses are ready to wear.

Rwanda has at least two community health workers per village, approximately 60,000 nationally. In partnership with the Government of Rwanda's Ministry of Health, Vision for a Nation will use this network of health workers, together with school teachers to provide vision assessments, referring those who need eyeglasses to nurses at their local health centre.