KATHMANDU, MAY 2
The World Health Organization (WHO), together with Nepal's Ministry of Health and Population (MOHP), is launching the SPECS 2030 initiative in Nepal with the goal of improving the vision and quality of life for tens of thousands of Nepali people, according to the press release issued by the WHO.
Although eyeglasses offer a simple, cost-effective solution, millions-including thousands in Nepal-continue to suffer from avoidable vision problems caused by uncorrected refractive errors. Surveys such as the Rapid Assessment of Avoidable Blindness (RAAB) have revealed a critical need for integrating refractive error care into Nepal's health system, the release further stated.
"Millions struggle with avoidable vision problems because they can't get eyeglasses. Nepal shares this issue. In 2021, WHO Member States agreed on the first global target for refractive error. They aim to achieve a 40-point rise in effective refractive error coverage (eREC) by 2030."
The SPECS 2030 initiative (Short-sightedness, Presbyopia, and Effective Coverage Services) focuses on five core pillars: improving access to refractive services, building trained human resources, enhancing public education, lowering the cost of services, and strengthening data systems and research.
Speaking at the launch event in Kathmandu, Dr Stuart Keel of the WHO Vision and Eye Care Programme emphasized that nearly one billion people globally live with vision issues that could be solved with a pair of glasses. "The SPECS 2030 initiative takes an important step to address untreated refractive errors, like short sightedness and long-sightedness, which are major causes of vision problems among children and adults," he said.
The implementation of SPECS 2030 in countries like Nepal is critical to bridge the gap between global eye care commitments and their implementation in countries. To support country action, WHO is also focusing on strengthening partnerships with nongovernment organisations and the
private sector, as well as developing technical guidelines and standards. Together, these approaches aim to create integrated people-centred refractive error services, the release noted.
Dr Krishna Prasad Paudel, Chief of the Policy Planning and Monitoring Division at the MoHP, called the launch "a significant milestone" in Nepal's health journey. "This initiative is another step towards making eye health an essential part of our overall health efforts. It will expand access to vital eye care for everyone, focusing on those who need it the most," he added.
Dr Rajesh Sambhajirao Pandav, WHO Representative to Nepal, noted that vision problems extend beyond health, affecting social and economic well-being. "The WHO SPECS 2030 initiative gives countries a clear plan to tackle these problems. This effort aims to remove obstacles and make sure everyone can access basic eye care and glasses by focusing on sustainable and holistic solutions," he said.
The event featured presentations, panel discussions, and a ceremonial plaque exchange between WHO and MoHP leadership, with participation from stakeholders including Tilganga Institute of Ophthalmology and NGOs working in eye care.
