Krabi Governor, Mr. Passakorn Bunyalak, took center stage as he inaugurated a groundbreaking initiative aimed at improving the vision of rural students in Krabi. The Thai Red Cross Society, in collaboration with the Office of the Red Cross in Krabi Province and the Relief and Public Health Office of the Thai Red Cross Society, proudly launched the Mobile Eyeglass Cutting Vehicle Project. The launch event, held at Ratchaprachanukhro School 2 in Ban Bang Phueng, Kok Yang Sub-district, Nuea Khlong District, marked the beginning of a ten-day mission spanning eight districts of Krabi Province.
The project, which runs from July 3 to July 13, 2023, set out to provide 3,210 students from 197 educational institutions with access to eye examinations and eyeglasses. Recognizing the critical issue of visual impairment among rural school children, both the Red Cross Society agencies identified the lack of awareness and understanding among teachers, parents, and students, as well as the scarcity of ophthalmologists and quality eyeglasses in remote areas.


Governor Passakorn Bunyalak emphasized the significance of addressing this problem urgently. With a considerable number of rural students struggling with vision problems, their intellectual development and educational opportunities are hindered, impacting their future prospects. This obstacle not only affects their academic pursuits but also hampers their potential careers, consequently impeding the overall progress of the country.
To tackle this challenge head-on, the Thai Red Cross Society implemented the innovative Mobile Eyeglass Cutting Vehicle Project specifically designed for rural students in Krabi. The project utilizes a state-of-the-art mobile eyeglass cutter, a fully equipped vehicle capable of assembling eyeglasses promptly on-site during eye examinations. Thanks to this mobile unit, students in targeted areas can receive their eyeglasses on the very same day, enabling them to see clearly and participate fully in their studies and daily lives. This comprehensive solution empowers students to help themselves, their families, and society, not just in the present but also in the years to come.
The Mobile Eyeglass Cutting Vehicle Project represents a significant milestone in the quest to bridge the gap in vision care for rural students in Krabi. Its successful implementation stands as a testament to the collaborative efforts of the Thai Red Cross Society, the Office of the Red Cross in Krabi Province, and the Relief and Public Health Office of the Thai Red Cross Society. By providing crucial eye care services directly to the students’ doorsteps, this initiative paves the way for a brighter future, one where all children have equal opportunities to excel and contribute to their communities.