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hearX Foundation partnership launches hearing awareness training for teachers on WhatsApp

In recognition of World Hearing Day 2026, the hearX Foundation is launching a new AI-powered WhatsApp-based teacher training programme aimed at strengthening hearing awareness in classrooms. The initiative is launched in partnership with the University of Pretoria WHO Collaborating Centre for the prevention of deafness and hearing loss and aligns with this year’s global theme from the World Health Organization:

“From communities to classrooms: hearing care for all children.”


Hearing awareness training for teachers

World Hearing Day 2026 - Millions of children are going unheard

The 2026 campaign calls for urgent action so that no child is left behind due to ear or hearing problems. Globally, hearing loss affects an estimated 90 million children and adolescents aged 5–19, and many remain undiagnosed and without access to needed services—particularly in low-resource settings. Preventable and treatable conditions such as middle ear infections and impacted ear wax continue to contribute significantly to hearing difficulties in children.

 

When hearing challenges are not identified early, they can affect speech and language development, learning, social participation, and long-term opportunities. Schools and communities are therefore critical entry points for reaching children and ensuring early identification and care.

 


What the EARS programme offers teachers

The newly launched EARS Teacher Training programme equips teachers with practical knowledge and tools to support learners’ hearing health. The training is offered free of charge. Delivered entirely through WhatsApp, the short and accessible training helps teachers to:

 

●      Understand the importance of healthy hearing

●      Identify possible hearing difficulties in learners

●      Learn simple steps to support children in the classroom

 

The integrated AI agent, trained on WHO resources and the latest evidence, ensures that teachers are not left with unanswered questions. It provides responsive, evidence-aligned support throughout and after the training, making the programme a living resource rather than a once-off exercise.

By empowering educators to play a role in early identification, the programme supports the global call to integrate hearing care into school and child health initiatives.

 

“Teachers are often the first to notice when a child is struggling in the classroom,” said Tersia de Kock, director at the hearX Foundation. “By equipping teachers with the right knowledge and simple tools, we can help ensure that hearing challenges are identified earlier and that more children receive the support they need to learn and succeed.”


Free and available now - how to start

To start:  or visit: Teachers working with preschool and school-aged children are encouraged to participate in the free training.


To start:


Key Messages for World Hearing Day 2026:

  • Around 90 million children aged 5-19 years, live with hearing loss.

  • Over 60% of childhood hearing loss is preventable through simple, cost-effective public health measures.

  • Among those living with ear diseases or hearing loss, early identification and care are crucial to prevent long-term impacts on development, education, and future opportunities.

  • Integrating systematic screening and early intervention programmes into school health and child health plans can ensure improved outcomes for children living with ear or hearing problems.

 

For more information about World Hearing Day visit the World Health Organisation’s website here.

 

Media inquiries can be directed to Tersia de Kock at tersia@hearxfoundation.org or De Wet Swanepoel at dewet.swanepoel@up.ac.za 



 
 
 

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