Aster Volunteers Launch "Clear Sight" Pediatric Vision Screening In Kerala

Aster Volunteers, the global CSR arm of Aster DM Healthcare, has launched the “Clear Sight” project, a free pediatric vision screening initiative for school children in Kerala. 

In a press statement on Wednesday, the company informed that Shri. V. Sivankutty, Hon. Minister of Education, flagged off the “Clear Sight” vehicles at a ceremony in Thiruvananthapuram.

The statement from the CSR arm of Aster DM Healthcare further informed that the project aims to provide free vision screenings to nearly 30,000 school children annually for ten years, starting in the Ernakulam and Kozhikode regions. This initiative, supported by Asterians United and Aster DM Healthcare Hospitals in Kerala (Aster Medcity Kochi & Aster MIMS - Calicut, Kannur, Kottakkal) along with OneSight EssilorLuxottica Foundation, represents an annual aid worth Rs1 crore, totalling Rs10 crores over the project period.

Asterians United, an employee engagement initiative, co-funded the capital expenditure for the “Clear Sight” project vehicles. The project seeks to enhance children's quality of life by improving eyesight through timely diagnosis and the provision of pre-fabricated spectacles. The initiative will begin in Ernakulam and Kozhikode, with plans to expand across Kerala and beyond.

Aster Volunteers Mobile Medical Services (AVMMS) aims to bridge healthcare accessibility gaps by providing free medical camps and disaster aid. Since its inception, AVMMS has treated over 1.4 million individuals in India, the Middle East, and Africa, and operates over 40 units globally. 

Azad Moopen, Founder Chairman of Aster DM Healthcare, stated, “Aster Volunteers is dedicated to making quality healthcare accessible to anyone, anywhere. The ‘Clear Sight’ project serves as a stepping stone in our commitment to aiding school children, ensuring their right to clear vision.”

Following the flag-off, Shri. V. Sivankutty emphasised the importance of the initiative, noting, “With the rise of digital study materials and social media, undiagnosed vision problems have become a common issue among school children. The ‘Clear Sight’ project will significantly improve the educational experience and everyday activities of these children.”

K V Mahesh, Head of OneSight EssilorLuxottica Foundation, added, “By ensuring clear vision for children in Kerala, we are making a direct impact on their educational journey and personal growth. We look forward to continuing our partnership with the Aster Group and the Government of Kerala to ensure quality eye care for all.”