Sightsavers, the international development organization dedicated to preventing blindness and promoting disability rights, is commemorating 50 years of its health and inclusion partnerships in Bangladesh this month.
Over the course of five decades, Sightsavers has collaborated with the government, local organizations, and communities to significantly impact millions of people's lives.
Throughout its journey, Sightsavers has been instrumental in providing essential eye care services, supporting over 2 million cataract surgeries, conducting 24 million eye examinations, and administering around 20 million eye health treatments.
Moreover, the organization has empowered approximately 10,000 individuals with disabilities through education and vocational training, fostering equal opportunity.
This milestone celebration highlights Sightsavers' unwavering commitment to eliminating avoidable blindness and promoting inclusivity through advocating for inclusive policies and programs. The organization firmly believes in empowering persons with disabilities to participate actively in society.
To commemorate the 50th anniversary in Bangladesh, Sightsavers held a grand celebration event on Wednesday at the Pan Pacific Sonargaon Hotel.
The event witnessed the presence of distinguished figures from various sectors, including Planning Minister MA Mannan MP, and Social Welfare State Minister Md Ashraf Ali Khan Khasru MP.
Dr Caroline Harper CBE, the CEO of Sightsavers, expressed her heartfelt gratitude to all dedicated partners and staff members who have contributed to the organization's remarkable work in Bangladesh over the past 50 years.
She acknowledged the transformative impact on countless lives through improved eye health and disability rights initiatives.
Apart from directly assisting individuals and communities, Sightsavers has played a vital role in the long-term sustainability of Bangladesh's health and development systems.
The organization has supported the training of over 6,000 health professionals and 42,000 community health volunteers.
The 50th-anniversary commemoration serves as an opportune moment to reflect on the achievements of Sightsavers, the government, and other partners in Bangladesh.
It also marks a new action phase towards building an inclusive and prosperous future for the country.
Sightsavers is dedicated to fulfilling the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals promise of “leaving no one behind” and will continue to collaborate with various stakeholders, including government, disability organizations, civil society, and the private sector, to ensure an inclusive society for all.
Sightsavers Bangladesh Country Director, Amrita Rejina Rozario, expressed pride in the organization's progress, achievements, and positive impact over the last five decades.
