Rotary’s youth members are joining forces with the globally renowned visionary Dr. V.K. Raju, founder of the Eye Foundation of America (EFA), in a profound mission to eradicate childhood blindness. On June 14, 2025, an inspiring gathering took place at the India International Centre in New Delhi, where a dynamic group of Rotaractors and Interactors expressed their unwavering commitment to carrying forward Dr. Raju’s vision of a “world without childhood blindness.” This event marked a significant step in creating intergenerational partnerships for global health equity.Uniting Passionate Youth Leaders
The event brought together remarkable youth leaders from Rotary’s youth wings, namely Rotaract and Interact clubs. These young changemakers actively contribute to their communities, addressing pressing health and development challenges in alignment with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Key participants in this impactful dialogue included:
· Rotaractor Saacchi Saxena: President of the Rotaract Club of World Without Childhood Blindness and an EFA Youth Ambassador.
· Rotaractor-Rotarian Poorvi Sahai: EFA Ambassador and mentor to the younger generation.
· Interactor Sabyaa Saxena: Immediate Past President of the SDG Community Interact Club and an EFA Young Ambassador.
· Interactor Kaashvi: Current President of the SDG Community Interact Club.
· Interactors Ruhaan and Apal: Student volunteers directly engaged in school-based vision screening campaigns.
These youth leaders, with their passion and dedication, demonstrated how grassroots engagement and collaborative initiatives could serve as the driving force for global change.
The Global Challenge of Childhood Blindness
Childhood blindness remains a significant global health challenge with far-reaching consequences. Dr. Raju highlighted some alarming statistics during his address. For example, three-fourths of children with visual impairments never have the opportunity to attend school. Blindness also significantly reduces employability by up to 50%, which perpetuates cycles of poverty and social isolation.
Dr. Raju specifically drew attention to the situation in India, where approximately 3.5 million premature babies are born annually. Among them, nearly one in six—equivalent to 600,000 infants—are born at less than 32 weeks of gestational age. Of these, about 40% receive neonatal care, and 80% survive, leaving over 200,000 children vulnerable to developing Retinopathy of Prematurity, a preventable cause of childhood blindness.
Strategies and Innovations to Address the Issue
The discussions at the event revolved around scaling the mission of eliminating childhood blindness through grassroots activism, awareness campaigns, and innovative approaches. Some of the key strategies discussed included:
· School-Based Awareness Drives: Empowering students to lead vision screening and educational initiatives within their schools and communities.
· Community Screening Campaigns: Conducting local eye health check-ups to identify and address preventable causes of blindness.
· Technology-Driven Solutions: Leveraging modern tools and digital platforms to enhance the reach and effectiveness of eye care services.
Dr. Raju emphasized the transformative role that Rotary Fellowships could play in building a global network of youth-led initiatives to advance eye health. He shared insights from his vast global experience, illustrating the tangible impact of cohesive action between local and international stakeholders.
Milestones and Future Plans
The meeting also featured several exciting announcements that underscored the commitment of Rotary youth and the Eye Foundation of America:
· Launch of Vision Ambassador Chapters: Schools and colleges will establish these chapters, led by Interactors and Rotaractors, to promote eye health and engage young people in advocacy efforts.
· Global EFA Youth Fellowship: This fellowship will provide training and mentorship to young leaders interested in eye care and public health advocacy.
· #SeeTheFuture Campaign: A powerful youth-led social media movement aimed at raising awareness about childhood blindness and mobilizing global support for the cause.
· Global Vision Summit: Scheduled for January 31, 2027, in New York, this summit will coincide with the proposed International Day for a World Without Childhood Blindness. It will serve as a platform for international dialogue and collaboration.
Each of these milestones represents a concerted effort to institutionalize youth leadership in the fight against childhood blindness while fostering a culture of empathy and action.
Inspiring Words from Dr. Raju
Dr. Raju expressed profound gratitude and admiration for the youth participants, describing them as the leaders of today, not just tomorrow. “If we equip our youth with empathy, purpose, and tools—there is no mission too big, no blindness too deep,” he said. His words resonated deeply with everyone present, reinforcing the belief that young people hold the power to shape a brighter, healthier future.
The event concluded with the signing of a symbolic Charter of Commitments, which outlined the roadmap for future collaborations between Rotary youth clubs, the Eye Foundation of America, and local vision care partners. This charter highlighted the shared goals of preventing childhood blindness, ensuring equitable access to eye care, and empowering every child to see the world clearly.
The collaboration between Rotary youth and Dr. V.K. Raju exemplifies how intergenerational partnerships can address critical global health challenges. By empowering young leaders, fostering innovation, and building alliances, the movement to eradicate childhood blindness is gaining momentum. This monumental effort serves as a testament to the power of compassion, determination, and collective action in shaping a world where every child can see a brighter future.
About the Eye Foundation of America
Founded by Dr. V.K. Raju, the Eye Foundation of America is a global non-profit organization dedicated to preventing blindness through service, education, and research. Over the years, EFA has impacted millions of lives across India, Africa, the UK, and the United States by delivering high-quality eye care in underserved regions. The foundation remains committed to its mission of creating a world where no child suffers from preventable blindness.
Join the Movement
Dr. Raju passionately called on individuals and organizations to join this noble mission. “Together, let us illuminate young lives and create a world without childhood blindness. Your support can change lives, restore vision, and empower futures,” he urged. “Now, let’s all be part of something extraordinary.”
For those interested in contributing to this remarkable initiative, more information is available at [www.eyefoundationofamerica.