Schools Promote Good Eye-care Habits

29 May 2007

We thank Mr Hu Jiang Tao for his letter “Schools ought to promote eye exercises” (Lianhe Zaobao, 23 May 07). We, too, believe that it is important to look after our children's eyesight.
The Ministry of Education has been working closely with the Health Promotion Board (HPB) since 1997 to provide a vision care programme and advice to schools. Among the measures recommended is the promotion of good eye-care habits such as avoiding prolonged near work. Teachers are also advised on eye-care considerations, for example, in the selection of teaching materials. In March this year, HPB sent every pupil, teacher and parent a booklet on ways to care for the eyesight of children.
We are glad that parents like Mr Hu are playing a part to care for our children's eyesight. Such support from parents will go a long way to complement schools’ efforts to protect our children's eyesight.

Wong Siew Hoong
Director, Schools
Ministry of Education