CMIRC School Vision Screening Program in RY 2024-2025

Good vision is essential for learning, yet hundreds of students in Chiang Mai’s municipal schools suffer from undiagnosed vision problems that impact their education, confidence, and overall development.

In partnership with the Rotary Club of Chiang Mai-Wattana, CMIRC screens third- and fifth-graders for vision issues at Chiang Mai municipal schools and Wat Suan Dok School. Since 2020, CMIRC has screened over 3,200 students and provided more than 560 pairs of free prescription glasses to children in need. We also referred 32 for special treatment.

Importantly, we provide glasses free of charge to the children who need them, since most come from very poor families who cannot afford eye care on their own.

During RY 2024–2025, the School Vision Screening Program continued with great success, identifying and addressing vision problems that hinder classroom performance and daily life. We screened 705 students and wrote prescriptions and provided glasses to about 140 students, and referred 8 students to specialists.

When ophthalmological concerns go beyond the need for corrective lenses, we refer those students to our trusted consulting ophthalmologist, Dr. Tayakorn Kupakanjana (Dr. Nickie) at Saint Peter Eye Hospital. Thanks to this partnership, children with more serious eye conditions receive professional diagnosis and care, without placing a financial burden on their families.

In 2025–2026, CMIRC will maintain and expand this initiative, ensuring more students receive the eye care they deserve, helping them learn and thrive.