A charity is donating free spectacles to hundreds of needy school pupils.
The African Eye Institute (AEI) visited Belgravia High School earlier this month to do screening and eye tests, as part of its One School at a Time programme, and now 250 pupils will soon receive their new spectacles
The AEI’s head of programmes, Nad Ramsarup, said they wanted to make essential eye-care services available to all.
“The majority of our population in South Africa is dependent on public health services, and eye health services are not provided at every public facility.
“Our focus is on child eye health, hence we work with schools where one finds a community of children in one place. With the current economic climate, families are already battling to survive, and eye health is not a priority – food is. Most parents have to work, and if they miss a day of work, they are not paid for that day. So with us going to schools, it makes access so much easier. We are happy to bridge this gap.”
Improved eyesight led to improved learning for children, he said.
“Studies have shown that 80% of what a child learns is through the sense of vision. Poor vision affects a child’s learning. Being able to see well, will not only help them perform better in the classroom but in public spaces as well. Many of the children travel by public transport to school. Overall, it enhances the social development of a child.”
The organisation started 23 years ago, and it works across the African continent. Two years ago, its focus was on KwaZulu-Natal and this year it included the Western Cape, Eastern Cape and Gauteng.
As a non-profit organisation, it depended on the public’s support, Mr Ramsarup said.
“The need is great, and this makes it extremely difficult. We are constantly getting appeals from the community. We work with a group of optometrists who receive a stipend from us, hence we are dependent on the generosity of the public and businesses.”
Belgravia High’s School governing body chairwoman Zeenat Dawood said the school was grateful for the help.
“Many of our parents cannot afford this, and poor eyesight affects our learners’ academics. We are over the moon that our school has been chosen to be part of this programme. Priority learners were identified after the initial screening, and some were not even aware that they needed spectacles. Our learners are excited for their new spectacles.”
Call Mr Ramsarup at 065 994 9862 or visit www.aei.org.za if you can assist.