Making life colourful for the colour-blind
There is little awareness about colour blindness in Bangladesh; many do not even realise they are colour blind until they undergo specific medical tests. That is exactly how Saif Ahmed discovered his condition
Md Saifuddin Ahmed dreamed of becoming a pilot from a young age. In 2019, after completing his HSC exams, he joined Galaxy Flying Academy to pursue that dream. But after passing all the necessary tests, he was devastated when the medical exam revealed he was colour blind.
His dream of soaring through the skies was suddenly grounded.
But Saif did not let despair take over. Determined to make life easier for others like him, he dedicated himself to helping the colour-blind see the world in vibrant hues.
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Saif embarked on extensive research to understand colour blindness. To equip himself better for this mission, he enrolled in the Department of Pharmacy at North South University. After years of effort, in 2022, Saif created 'Vibrant' glasses — specialised eyewear that allows colour-blind individuals to perceive colours accurately. In addition to the glasses, he also developed contact lenses and mobile screen protectors using the same technology.
Globally, over 30 million people are colour blind, with 1 in 12 men and 1 in 200 women being affected by the condition. Contrary to the common misconception, colour blindness does not mean seeing only in shades of gray. About 95% of colour-blind individuals struggle with distinguishing between red and green, while 5% have difficulty with blue and yellow. Only a few — 1 in 30,000 — see no colour at all.
In Bangladesh, awareness about colour blindness remains scarce. Many only learn of their condition through medical examinations, just as Saif did.
The challenge of colour blindness
Colour blindness is not curable. The human eye perceives colour through cells in the retina called cone cells. When these cells do not function properly — often due to genetic factors — the ability to see specific colours diminishes.
After learning he was colour blind in 2019, Saif sought treatment from various doctors but found no solution. The emotional toll was severe, requiring him to consult psychiatrists. Gradually, Saif found the strength to focus on a new goal and enrolled into university.
Saif was inspired by the contribution of pharmacists during the Covid-19 pandemic. "Pharmacists played a significant role in the development of vaccines and drugs. Though often underappreciated, their work makes groundbreaking advancements possible. I realised that pursuing pharmacy could help me contribute to solving challenges faced by the colour-blind," he shared.
The invention of 'Vibrant' glasses
The concept of glasses for the colour blind is not entirely new. In 2000, American scientist Dr Don McPherson developed glasses with specialised lenses for surgeons, which also allowed colour-blind individuals to see some colours. Later, in 2010, the American brand EnChroma introduced glasses with advanced filter lenses for colour-blind users.
While EnChroma glasses gained popularity in Europe and America, Saif wanted to create an affordable alternative tailored for Bangladesh.
"The price of EnChroma glasses range between $250 and $500 (Tk30,000–60,000), which is unaffordable for most. My glasses are priced at just Tk3,000–4,000," Saif explained.
While researching for Vibrant, Saif surveyed his classmates to see how many were colour blind. In just 40 minutes, he identified six individuals who did not know they were colour blind. This highlighted the lack of early diagnosis and awareness.
Saif emphasised the importance of testing. "Colour blindness can be diagnosed through the Ishihara test, developed by Japanese doctor Shinobu Ishihara. In Bangladesh, this test should be integrated into primary education to ensure early detection."
After three years of trial and error, Saif successfully developed Vibrant glasses in 2022. Two years later, he introduced contact lenses and mobile screen protectors using the same formula.
The science behind Vibrant
When asked about the creation process, Saif revealed, "I don't have the advanced equipment that optical stores do. I rely on basic tools: a drill machine, some clamps, and colour-coating materials from Old Dhaka. Everything is handmade, and I often have to start over if the glass breaks."
The innovation lies in Vibrant's colour coating, made by blending red, blue, and green pigments. Saif immerses the tinted lenses in hot water to make the colours permanent. The specific ratios and techniques remain a closely guarded secret.
Using the same formula, Saif also developed screen protectors and contact lenses. While 80% of his customers benefit from standard Vibrant lenses, the remaining 20% require custom lenses tailored to their specific needs.
One customer from Qatar, a professional driver, shared his story with Saif. Unable to pass the Ishihara test required for his job, he sought help from Vibrant. The glasses allowed him to return to Qatar and resume work.
Beyond profit
Saif prioritises those in urgent need, such as individuals stuck in exams or job processes due to colour blindness. While Vibrant has yet to become a large-scale business, its impact extends beyond Bangladesh, with customers from India, South Africa, and the Middle East.
By wearing Vibrant glasses or lenses, many have cleared exams, secured jobs in the garment and merchandise industries, and reclaimed opportunities previously out of reach.
Despite Vibrant's success though, Saif's journey has not been easy. "No one supported me in the beginning — not even my family. Their lack of encouragement still haunts me, though they support me now," he reflected.
Saif is also exploring other pharmaceutical innovations. He recently developed a rapid-action effervescent paracetamol tablet for fever and pain. Additionally, he is working on a dengue vaccine, which he says has shown promising results.
Although he is satisfied with Vibrant's current model, Saif dreams of becoming a full-fledged scientist. He believes that with proper institutional support, Vibrant could elevate Bangladesh's medical industry to global prominence
