Did you know that Singapore has the highest rate of myopia in the world, with 80-90% of teenagers affected? This isn't just a health crisis—it's a national emergency impacting the futures of countless children.

 

Like many of my peers and family members, I am an unfortunate part of the 80-90% of Singaporean teenagers grappling with myopia, an epidemic crossing the barrier from just medical to societal concern.

 

Myopia, or nearsightedness, is undoubtedly a ubiquitous issue across the globe, but its alarming prevalence in our vibrant city-state - Singapore - raises a unique concern. With such a high proportion of teenagers obligatorily adjusting to this vision impairment, it's clear we are facing an escalating health crisis necessitating government intervention.

 

Scientific research universally points to excessive screen time and deficient exposure to natural light as key factors accelerating the progression of myopia among youth. What's more disturbing is that this pattern shows no signs of slowing down unless we begin to address it comprehensively. 

 

The proposition is clear: To counteract the epidemic, there's an urgency to reversion our education model that currently over-relies on digital screens.

 

The government, through research and other necessary means, should figure out ways to combat this pressing issue and strive to implement them as soon as possible. However, here are some possible solutions the government can implement soon including but not limited to:

• Implement (more) outdoor learning spaces in schools to increase exposure to natural light.

 

• Provide light intensity checkers to schools so teachers can monitor classroom lighting conditions to ensure they are okay.

 

• Incorporate 'eye breaks' and myopia prevention lessons into the curriculum.

 

With your signature, we can persuade the Ministry of Education (MOE) to work in tandem with the Ministry of Health (MOH) to evaluate and implement strategies that promote a healthier vision among our youth.

 

Your support could change the lives of countless children and teenagers, removing the shackles of myopia. Please, sign this petition and stand against the myopia crisis.

 

Please share this with your family, friends, and networks to help spread the word.

Thank you for your support!

Anish