Deputy director at the provincial Department of Health Virginia Mawela said their comprehensive vision screening initiative would help learners from disadvantaged communities have a better chance to succeed in their studies.
Mawela said the initiative between Gauteng Department of Health, Department of Education, and African Eye Institute had seen thousands of learners receiving free spectacles to help enhance their vision.
Speaking at the handover ceremony of spectacles to learners of Reshomile Primary School and Muzomuhle Primary School in Diepsloot, Mawela thanked the nurses who were deployed to schools to screen learners.
“As the department, we want to ensure that our learners see clearly while learning which is why I’m very grateful that schoolchildren will be issued with spectacles. If eye problems are detected and treated early, children can enjoy normal vision.”
Linda Govender, interim director at the institute said her organisation had been working with the two departments to help learners with vision problems.
“Proper vision is vital for a child’s education. There is no greater joy than watching the expression of a child when a pair of spectacles is placed on their face and the world is brought into clear focus for the first time.
“By providing simple interventions, such as vision screening, spectacles or referrals to hospitals for further care and management, the project is making a positive difference to the well-being and future of these children.”
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