Sightsavers 75th Anniversary supplement published in partnership with RSTMH
RSTMH has partnered with Sightsavers to publish a new collection of research in the journal International Health, in celebration of the charity’s 75th anniversary.
Sightsavers was founded in 1950 by Sir John Wilson and Lady Jean Wilson, with a bold vision: to build a world where no one is blind from avoidable causes, and where people with disabilities participate equally in society.
The anniversary supplement, published today, aims to highlight research and progress in the fields of global health and disability inclusion. It contains 10 research articles, two editorials and two ‘Lessons from the Field’ articles, which collectively explore the pathways towards achieving universal health coverage and greater global equality.
At RSTMH, supplements are an important part of our journals as they help to share more detailed information about topical projects and studies while highlighting partnerships.
Original studies published in the supplement include papers looking at spectacle compliance among children as part of a school health programme in Pakistan, the burden and risk factors of Female Genital Schistosomiasis in Nigeria, and the factors associated with disability-related stigma and discrimination in Western Kenya.
The importance of partnership
The latest supplement is part of a multi-year dissemination partnership between RSTMH and Sightsavers, to share evidence that can support the international community to strengthen health systems and improve health equity.
This partnership has previously given rise to research collections focusing on eye health, as well as two large initiatives to tackle neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) - the Ascend programme, and the global trachoma elimination programme.
The partnership between Sightsavers and RSTMH hopes to share the important research in global health and health equity and support others to take strides towards eliminating NTDs and strengthening healthcare building blocks.
These research collections are an illustration of the important role that non-governmental organisations can play within the field of international development research. A commitment to high-quality evidence, research and innovation is needed now more than ever, as humanity grapples with the impacts of climate change, persistent inequality, and growing political and economic instability.