Hari Bahadur Thapa
Improving the eyesight of children with disabilities
SDG Focus: Good Health and Wellbeing and Quality Education
Hari Bahadur Thapa, M.A, M. Optom, Ph.D. Scholar is a distinguished professional in the field of Optometry and Vision Science, with significant contributions to pediatric optometry and public health. Mr. Thapa is from Lumbini Province, Nepal, the birthplace of Lord Buddha, and holds dual Master's degrees: a Master of Sociology (MA) from Tribhuvan University, Nepal, and a Master of Optometry (M.Optom) from India. He currently serves as an Associate Professor in Optometry and Vision Science at the National Academy of Medical Science (NAMS), Nepal. In addition to his academic role, Mr. Thapa has been practicing as a senior optometrist at the Lumbini Eye Institute and Research Centre (LEIRC), Nepal, since 2004. He also contributes to the institute’s research and ethics oversight as a member of the Institute Review Committee (IRC) at LEIRC. With over two decades of experience, Mr. Thapa has dedicated a significant portion of his professional career to pediatric optometry, with a particular focus on public health initiatives for children’s vision. He has been instrumental in leading and managing projects aimed at providing comprehensive eye care services for children with disabilities in Lumbini Province.
Cohort 2 Project: Improving the eyesight of children with disabilities
Mr. Thapa's ongoing research and intervention project aim to assess the impact of eyecare services on children with disabilities, specifically evaluating spectacle provision, spectacle wear adherence, and the subsequent effects on educational performance, daily activities, and overall quality of life. Through this project, Mr. Thapa seeks to address the vision-related needs of a vulnerable population and contribute to the broader goal of inclusive health and education in Nepal.