University of Limpopo and Ster-Kinekor join forces to improve children’s vision
By Johannes Selepe – mosela.selepe@ul.ac.za
The University of Limpopo’s (UL) Department of Optometry, in a collaborative effort with Ster-Kinekor, recently brought joy to children from seven nearby primary schools who were experiencing vision impairments.
A total of 55 pairs of spectacles were generously provided to correct visual errors, significantly enhancing the children’s quality of life. The selected schools included Mamabolo Primary School, Molamo Primary School, Makgefola Primary School, Badimong Primary School, Makeketela Primary School, Mantheding Primary School, and Megoding Primary School. The criteria for selection were based on the needs and vision challenges of the learners, with UL Optometry students actively participating in identifying those in need under the guidance of their academics.
Dr Pheagane Nkoana, Senior Lecturer in the Department of Optometry, expressed the department’s commitment to community outreach initiatives. He highlighted the long-standing efforts of UL’s Optometry Department in supporting individuals with eye and vision challenges, underscoring the collaborative milestone achieved with Ster-Kinekor in 2023.
During the handover event, Dr. Nkoana stressed the importance of early detection of eye challenges in children to address them promptly. “We strive to enhance the quality of life for these children, ensuring they experience no pain or discomfort in their bodies. Teachers play a crucial role in assisting us with the early detection of visual errors, ensuring that these challenges are addressed before they impede the children in their future endeavours.”
Dr Nkoana acknowledged the department’s annual outreach in partnership with hospitals and the Phelophepha Train, which assists approximately 17,000 individuals requiring eye care.
“Thank you, Ster-Kinekor; your efforts are greatly contributing to our mission of making optometry services accessible to the general public as a department,” added Dr Nkoana.
Eunice Livhalani, Complex Manager at Mall of the North Ster-Kinekor, expressed excitement about the positive outcomes of the partnership with UL. She shared, “Through the Ster-Kinekor Vision initiative and our partnership with UL, we are looking forward to helping more children in the future.”
Prof Lawrence Sithole, Director of the School of Health Care Science at UL, emphasised the significance of sustaining the partnership between UL and Ster-Kinekor for the enhancement of the lives of ordinary people.
“The majority of black optometrists in the country received their training at UL. The University has played a pivotal role in improving the lives of individuals, particularly in addressing vision impairments. We are committed to intensifying our efforts and expanding our initiatives. This partnership with Ster-Kinekor will not only contribute to building a better future for the children currently benefiting but also to eradicating unwarranted visual impairments.”
In a final note of appreciation, it was highlighted that several UL Optometry students are currently benefiting from scholarships provided by Ster-Kinekor, furthering their studies and contributing to the broader impact on eye care.