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On November 22nd and 23rd, Beijing hosted an important two-day workshop that brought together representatives from across China to focus on evidence-based planning for the future of eye health in the country. Organized in preparation for China’s 15th Five-Year National Eye Health Plan (2026–2030), this workshop underscored the critical role that data and evidence play in shaping policies that deliver meaningful and sustainable change.
The workshop opened with remarks from Professor Wang Ning Li, Chair of the Chinese National Prevention of Blindness Technical Guidance Committee, who highlighted the importance of this moment in China’s eye health journey. Professor Wang’s words set the tone for a collaborative and forward-thinking gathering, emphasizing the need for robust planning to achieve better eye health outcomes nationwide. The event also benefited from the expertise and facilitation of Dr Hu Ailian, Deputy-Chair of the Chinese National Prevention of Blindness Technical Guidance Committee, whose deep knowledge and insights enriched the discussions.
Facilitated by Fabrizio D’Esposito, IAPB Head of Region for Western Pacific, the workshop aimed to equip members of the Prevention of Blindness Technical Guidance Committee at both national and sub-national levels with the tools and skills needed to conduct a comprehensive situation analysis using the WHO’s Eye Care Situational Analysis Tool (ECSAT). The workshop was generously supported by The Fred Hollows Foundation and brought together participants from 25 provinces, reflecting the broad commitment across China to strengthen evidence-based planning for eye health.
As provinces prepare to undertake local situation analyses, the workshop marked a significant step toward ensuring that the next national eye health plan is informed by accurate and actionable data. Many provinces have already pledged to conduct their analyses, which will play a key role in shaping strategies and priorities for the 2026–2030 period.
The importance of such preparation cannot be overstated. Evidence-based planning ensures that interventions are targeted where they are most needed, resources are used efficiently, and progress can be effectively monitored. By aligning provincial findings with national objectives, China can craft a Five-Year Plan that addresses the unique needs of its diverse population while setting an example for other countries in the region.
Discussions during the workshop extended beyond the 15th Five-Year Plan. Participants also explored opportunities for engagement in the upcoming 2026 Global Summit on Eye Health. This landmark event will be a platform for sharing innovations, fostering collaboration, advancing global eye health priorities, and catalysing action across the sector and beyond. IAPB Members and the National Prevention of Blindness Technical Guidance Committee are well-positioned to play a leading role in this global conversation, leveraging their experiences and successes to drive progress worldwide.
The workshop in Beijing exemplified the power of collaboration, with the combined expertise of Chinese health leaders, IAPB, and The Fred Hollows Foundation paving the way for a stronger, more resilient eye health system in China. As we move toward 2025 and beyond, the commitment demonstrated by provinces across China offers hope and inspiration. Together, through evidence-based planning and strategic collaboration, we can achieve our shared vision of Universal Eye Health Coverage.
