With World Sight Day observed on 9 October, it was fitting that the University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN) Foundation received a R2.1 million mobile eye clinic.
The state-of-the-art clinic will enable UKZN’s Discipline of Optometry to deliver widespread eye health care to rural areas in KwaZulu-Natal.
The mobile eye clinic was made possible through a generous sponsorship by the South African Muslim Charitable Trust (SAMCT).
Rural populations in the province will now have access to eye screenings, comprehensive eye examinations, and receive eyewear to minimise vision impairments.
Advanced equipment, such as the autorefractor, will help optometry practitioners determine the strength of glasses a beneficiary requires.
A slit lamp will facilitate front-of-the-eye viewing and examinations, whilst an ocular fundus camera will take images of the back of the eye.
The mobile clinic is also equipped with an array of handheld equipment for various examinations.
Mobile eye clinic to benefit both students and communities
Chairman of SAMCT, Gaff Osman, indicated that the organisation’s multi-million rand contribution towards optometry served a dual purpose.
“We aim to help bridge the gap in access to quality eye-care services in rural communities across the province.
“At the same time, this project will offer invaluable hands-on training for UKZN’s optometry students, allowing them to integrate academic learning with practical service, while making a real difference in disadvantaged areas,” said Osman.
The Head of the Discipline of Optometry at UKZN, Dr Naimah Ebrahim Khan, was pleased by the generous donation.
As the world marks World Sight Month in October, Khan believed it was apt to create awareness around preventable blindness, which is rife in KwaZulu-Natal. This condition impedes the quality of life of the population.
Thankful for the donation, Khan said: “The mobile eye clinic represents more than just equipment – it is a lifeline for communities with little or no access to eye-care. And [it’s] an invaluable training ground for our students, ensuring that they graduate as competent. Compassionate practitioners ready to serve society.”
