Organization: Shomea
Title: School Based Screening of Hearing and Vision in Cameroon
Al title (for format and translation – not permanent:
School-based screening of hearing and vision in Cameroon
Description:
In alignment with the 2026 World Hearing Day theme, “From communities to classrooms: hearing care for all children,” Shomea successfully conducted a series of impactful activities aimed at improving access to hearing and vision care among school-aged children in Cameroon. These activities were centered around two primary schools in Yaounde – Cameroon, where comprehensive ear and hearing assessments were carried out.
Across both sites, a significant number of children were screened using otoscopy and audiological assessments. The findings highlighted an important public health concern: a substantial proportion of children presented with abnormal otoscopic findings, including earwax impaction, foreign bodies, and signs of infection. In addition, a notable percentage of children demonstrated varying degrees of hearing impairment, ranging from mild to profound. These findings underscore the silent burden of undiagnosed hearing conditions in school environments and the urgent need for systematic screening programs. The screening was then followed by rehabilitation with hearing aids for eligible children and continued care for those in need.
Beyond screening, Shomea placed strong emphasis on health education and awareness. Educational sessions were conducted for students, teachers, and a number of parents at both institutions. These sessions focused on:
– Basic ear hygiene and prevention of hearing loss
– Early signs of hearing and vision problems
– The importance of timely medical consultation
– Inclusion and intergration of hearing and or visually impaired children in routine school activities
These interactive discussions were well received and helped foster a better understanding of hearing health within the school communities. Teachers, in particular, expressed appreciation for the knowledge shared, recognizing its importance in supporting children’s learning and development.
At the policy level, Shomea engaged directly with the Ministry of Public Health of Cameroon (MINSANTE) to present the findings from these screening activities. This meeting was held in the presence of key actors at the Ministry and served as a platform to advocate for the integration of hearing and vision screening into national school health programs. The data collected during the screenings provided compelling evidence to support the need for early detection initiatives as part of routine child healthcare services. Discussions emphasized the long-term educational and social benefits of early diagnosis and intervention, particularly in reducing preventable disabilities.
To further amplify the message and reach a broader audience, Shomea actively participated in media engagement activities. The team delivered a radio interview, as well as televised discussions on Dash TV and GreenHealth News. These platforms were used to raise awareness about the importance of early hearing screening, share key findings from the field, and advocate for stronger community and governmental involvement in hearing health initiatives.
Overall, Shomea’s World Hearing Day 2026 activities demonstrated a comprehensive approach combining clinical service delivery, community education, policy advocacy, and media outreach. The initiative not only identified and rehabilitated children in need of further care but also contributed to building awareness among key stakeholders and influencing national dialogue on child health.
The outcomes from these activities reinforce the critical importance of integrating hearing and vision screening into school health systems. Through these efforts, Shomea further strengthens its commitment to advancing inclusive healthcare and reducing preventable childhood disabilities related to sensory impairments.
Primary site: AFR – Cameroon
Region: AFR
Impactful Story:
At four years, Daniel struggled with speech and at school, raising concerns among his teachers and family. During Shomea’s World Hearing Day 2026 school screening, he was identified with an undiagnosed hearing impairment. Following diagnosis, he was rehabilitated with bilateral hearing aids. The spark in his eyes and the excitement at fitting was heart warming, as he responded to sounds and to commands. Haven been enrolled in speech and language therapy sessions, the feedback from his teacher is thrilling as he is now actively participating in class, more confident and expressive, highlighting the life-changing impact of this initiative.
General Photos
Shomea’s Team of ENT surgeons and Nurses
Young girl being screened by Shomea in School #1
Young boy being screened by Shomea in school #2
Shomea’s Hearing Aid fitting and Programming session
Types of Engagement:
Live event: Yes
Screening: Yes
Traditional media: Yes
Social media: Yes
Special needs populations: persons with disabilities (including hearing loss), children and adolescents, Children in the Autism Spectrum and Children with Cerebral Palsy
Met with individual policymaker: Yes
Participation of policy makers: No
Participation of influencers: Yes
WHO technical tool used: Yes
WHO educational and social media used: Yes