Palli Karma-Sahayak Foundation (PKSF) and Orbis International have jointly launched a major initiative titled “Comprehensive Cataract Services in Bangladesh” to provide eye screening for one million low-income people and conduct 100,000 cataract surgeries over the next two years.
The initiative was inaugurated on Wednesday at PKSF Bhaban-1 in Agargaon, Dhaka, according to a press release.
PKSF Chairman Zakir Ahmed Khan presided over the ceremony, while Md Saidur Rahman, Secretary of the Health Services Division under the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, attended as the Chief Guest.
Professor Md Abu Jafor, Director General of the Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS), and Christie Hubbard, Director of Foundations and Institutional Resource Development at Orbis International, were present as Special Guests.
PKSF Managing Director Md Fazlul Kader delivered the welcome address, while Deputy Managing Director Md Hasan Khaled offered the vote of thanks. Dr Munir Ahmed, Country Director of Orbis International Bangladesh, presented an overview of the initiative.
Md Saidur Rahman said cataract surgery restores not just eyesight but also a person’s ability to work, contributing to national productivity and the achievement of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
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He said the initiative will strengthen the National Blindness Prevention Program and expand access to modern eye care in remote areas through public-private cooperation.
Christie Hubbard said cataract remains the leading cause of blindness in Bangladesh despite being highly treatable. She noted that Orbis has been working in the country for nearly four decades, restoring sight for thousands of people.
PKSF Chairman Zakir Ahmed Khan said PKSF’s extensive partner network enables it to deliver healthcare services even in areas where government facilities cannot reach. He expressed hope that 100,000 cataract surgeries under the program would significantly contribute to poverty alleviation.
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PKSF Managing Director Md Fazlul Kader said reducing health and livelihood risks is a strategic priority for PKSF. He noted that this partnership with Orbis International will help reduce avoidable blindness and contribute to the socio-economic development of marginalized communities.
According to Dr Munir Ahmed, nearly 550,000 people aged over 30 in Bangladesh are visually impaired, with 70 percent of them suffering from cataract-related blindness. Under the program, one million patients will be screened through 5,000 outreach programs, 1,200 healthcare workers will receive training on primary eye care, and 100 Vision Centers alongside 200 Community Eye Centers will serve as referral and follow-up hubs across 50 districts.
In addition, 25 Orbis-affiliated hospitals will play a central role in identifying cataract patients and performing surgeries.