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Florence, a 17-year-old student in her final year of junior high at Lycée Moderne d’Adidogomé in Lomé, was diligently preparing for the 2023–2024 BEPC (Brevet d’Études du Premier Cycle) exam. A bright and hardworking student, she began to experience a decline in her academic performance. Despite her teachers’ efforts — including moving her closer to the board — she increasingly struggled to read and write.
It wasn’t until early 2024 that the root cause of her difficulties was discovered. During a free eye screening organized by ophthalmology students from the University of Lomé, Florence was diagnosed with bilateral cataract. With her vision severely impaired, she had no choice but to drop out of school — temporarily putting her dream of becoming a human resources manager on hold.
Confronted with this urgent situation, one of Florence’s teachers — aware of CBM’s mission to fight avoidable blindness — reached out to the organization’s country office in Lomé. Thanks to the “Inclusive Eye Care Services Access in the Avé and Yoto Districts” project (PASOIPAY), funded by CBM and implemented by the National Eye Health Program (PNSO), Florence was referred for surgery at the Assahoun Eye Unit in the Avé district. This modern facility was built and equipped by CBM to meet the eye health needs of the local population.
On April 30, 2024, Florence underwent surgery. The operation was a success. She quickly regained her sight and, though still in recovery, was determined to return to school. Despite having the option to postpone her exams for medical reasons, she bravely chose to take them just two months after her operation.
Florence passed her BEPC with flying colors, to the immense relief and joy of her parents, teachers, classmates, and the CBM team. Her success is a testament not only to her personal resilience but also to the dedication of her educators and healthcare providers.
For CBM, Florence’s story is a powerful example of the tangible impact of its work to eliminate avoidable blindness. With CBM’s continued support and strong collaboration with national partners, many more children like Florence can receive timely, quality care — opening the door to a brighter future.
Launched in October 2022, the PASOIPAY project (Inclusive Eye Care Services Access in the Districts of Avé and Yoto) was recently evaluated, with results reaffirming CBM’s commitment alongside the Togolese government to promote eye health and prevent avoidable blindness.
CBM is committed to ensuring that no one experiences avoidable blindness, while also championing access to quality education for persons with disabilities. Florence’s story is a powerful example of how CBM’s programmes work hand in hand to transform lives. In her case, Inclusive Eye Health and Inclusive Education came together to support not just her vision, but her future — ensuring that disability is never a barrier to learning or reaching one’s potential.
