Organization: South African Association of Audiologists
Title: SAAA World hearing Day initiative 2026
Al title (for format and translation – not permanent:
SAAA World Hearing Day Initiative 2026
Description:
On 3 March 2026, the World Health Organization marked World Hearing Day under the theme *“From communities to classrooms: hearing care for all children.”* In alignment with this global call to action, the South African Association of Audiology (SAAA) successfully conducted hearing screenings for disadvantaged children in schools across South Africa during the week of 3 March.
As the professional body representing audiologists in South Africa, SAAA remains committed to the prevention, identification, and management of hearing and balance disorders across the lifespan. This year’s outreach initiative focused on early identification of hearing difficulties among young learners — a critical step in supporting speech and language development, classroom participation, and academic achievement.
Audiologists volunteered their time and expertise to screen learners, identifying children who may require further diagnostic assessment and intervention. For many learners, this was their first formal hearing screening. Early detection enables timely support, helping to prevent the long-term educational and social impact of undiagnosed hearing loss.
The initiative reinforced the powerful link between hearing health and learning success. Even mild hearing difficulties can affect a child’s ability to follow instructions, develop literacy skills, and engage confidently in the classroom. By bringing hearing care directly into school communities, SAAA and participating audiologists helped remove barriers to learning and promoted inclusive educational environments.
World Hearing Day 2026 served as a meaningful reminder that hearing care is essential to every child’s right to learn and thrive. Through continued collaboration between schools, families, and healthcare professionals, we can ensure that no child is left unheard.
Primary site: AFR – South Africa
Region: AFR
General Photos
Types of Engagement:
Live event:
Screening: Yes
Traditional media: Yes
Social media:
Special needs populations: children and adolescents, disadvantage
Met with individual policymaker: No
Participation of policy makers: No
Participation of influencers: No
WHO technical tool used:
WHO educational and social media used: