In a significant step towards improving hearing health in northern Nigeria, the Suleiman Hearing and Educational Foundation has launched its Community Ear Care Program at the Federal Medical Center, Katsina. The initiative aims to provide much-needed ear and hearing care services to the community, with a focus on underserved populations in rural areas.
The program, launched in collaboration with the Federal Medical Center, includes:
- Free hearing screenings for individuals of all ages.
- Hearing aids and other assistive devices provided at no cost to those diagnosed with hearing loss.
- Hearing health education, raising awareness about the importance of early detection and care.
- Training of local health workers to equip them with skills to manage hearing-related conditions, ensuring sustainable community care.
Speaking at the launch, the foundation’s director emphasized the need for increased attention to hearing health in Nigeria, where hearing disabilities often go undiagnosed and untreated, particularly in rural areas. “This program is not just about providing devices or surgery; it’s about building local capacity to ensure continued care long after our team has left. We are committed to improving the quality of life for people with hearing disabilities,” she stated.
The partnership with Federal Medical Center, Katsina, strengthens efforts to bring specialized medical care to the region. With the ongoing training of local healthcare providers, the program is expected to have a long-lasting impact, reaching thousands of people who would otherwise have limited access to hearing care.
Community members expressed gratitude for the initiative, noting that this marks the first time many of them have had access to such services. Plans are in place to expand the program to neighboring communities, ensuring a wider reach and greater awareness of hearing health.
The Community Ear Care Program is part of Suleiman Hearing and Educational Foundation’s broader mission to provide comprehensive hearing solutions and educational support across Nigeria.