VOKASI NEWS – In a world increasingly dominated by screens and digital devices, children’s eye health faces growing risks. Unfortunately, this issue remains one of the most overlooked aspects of pediatric health in community settings. Recognizing this critical gap, Diploma III Nursing students from Universitas Airlangga (UNAIR) took a meaningful step forward. The students conducted a community-based health promotion program focusing on eye anatomy, the vision process, and proper eye care. This educational activity took place at Graha Bunder Asri Mosque, Gresik, on Wednesday, April 16, 2026.
The program was successfully initiated and delivered by five dedicated D-III Nursing students. These students are Putryana Waluika, Salsabilah Lutfiah, Gadis Rahayu Pratiwi, Novia Dwi Aryanti, and Qismah Nuroniah. As a core part of their community nursing practicum, this activity clearly reflects UNAIR’s strong commitment. The institution aims to produce graduates who are not only clinically competent but also socially engaged and capable of delivering health education.
A Mosque As A Stage For Health Awarness
The choice of Graha Bunder Asri Mosque as the venue was both strategic and symbolic. As a central hub for community activities, the mosque provided an accessible, trusted, and welcoming environment. This familiar setting naturally drew together children, parents, and community members from various backgrounds. By bringing health education to this community space, the students ensured their vital messages reached everyone effectively.
From Anatomy To Action : What The Children Learned
The health promotion session was delivered in English, in line with the program’s objective of developing international health communication competencies among nursing students. However, the facilitators ensured that key messages were also explained in Indonesian. They used child-friendly language to maximize comprehension and engagement among all the young participants in attendance.
The session covered three core areas. First, children learned the basic anatomy of the human eye. They identified key structures including the cornea, lens, retina, and optic nerve. Second, the nursing students clearly explained the vision process and why vision conditions occur. Third, children received practical guidance on daily eye care, such as limiting screen time and reading in adequate lighting. The nursing students also taught them to eat foods rich in vitamin A and schedule routine eye check-ups.
“We wanted children to understand that their eyes are precious and that small daily habits can make a big difference in the long run. When children understand why something matters. They are much more likely to remember it and practice it,” stated Putryana Waluika, a Nursing student of UNAIR. The nursing students utilised interactive methods, including question-and-answer sessions, simple demonstrations, and health quizzes, to sustain attention.
The enthusiasm shown by the participants, who eagerly answered questions and competed in eye health quizzes, reflected the effectiveness of the students’ approach in making complex anatomical concepts accessible and fun.
Positive Responses and Appreciation from Local Parents
The impact of the session extended beyond the children themselves. Several parents who accompanied their children expressed deep appreciation for this student-led initiative. They noted that traditional healthcare systems rarely offer community-based health education outside of formal settings.
“My child spends a lot of time on his tablet, and I honestly didn’t realize how harmful that could be for his developing eyes. This program opened our eyes too not just the children’s. I hope events like this regularly in our neighborhood,” shared a local community member from Graha Bunder Asri.
Nursing Education Meets Community Service
This activity is a direct embodiment of UNAIR’s Tri Dharma the three pillars of higher education in Indonesia; teaching, research, and community service. Furthermore, for D-III Nursing students, fieldwork in community settings is far more than a mere academic requirement. It acts as a formative experience that actively shapes the kind of healthcare professionals they will become.
By designing and delivering a health promotion program that is culturally sensitive, age-appropriate, and scientifically grounded, the qualities that define compassionate and competent nursing practice, like empathy, communication, and a genuine desire to improve the well-being of the communities they serve. As digital lifestyles place growing strain on vision, programs like this serve as a vital reminder. Prevention always begins with education. Furthermore, education delivered with creativity can truly change lives.
[BACA JUGA: Children’s Low Enthusiasm in Learning English]
Penulis: Putryana Waluika, Salsabilah Lutfiah, Gadis Rahayu Pratiwi, Novia Dwi Aryanti, Qismah Nuroniah
Editor: Nawal Eka Paramita (Tim Vokasi Branding)
