Page 12 - Demo

10 PHILANTHROPY MAGAZINEFEATUREUKZN Optometry Expands Community Reach with ONESIGHT ESSILORLUXOTTICA PARTNERSHIPUKZN Optometry%u2019s Clinic has received a generous donation of optical equipment. MELISSA MUNGROOUKZN%u2019s Discipline of Optometry%u2019s Clinic has received a generous donation of optical equipment and resources from OneSight EssilorLuxottica Foundation. This was facilitated by academic leader and Optometry lecturer Dr Naimah Ebrahim Khan and the UKZN Foundation. This will allow the Optometry Clinic to bring affordable, high-quality eye care to underserved communities and enhance students%u2019 practical training.OneSight EssilorLuxottica Foundation, one of the leading optical groups globally, recognised the valuable work being done by UKZN Optometry. %u2018A few years ago, OneSight included students in their outreach efforts,%u2019 said Ebrahim Khan. %u2018They saw the impact we were having in our community and decided to assist.%u2019This collaboration was not only a response to community needs but also a recognition of the resource challenges faced by UKZN Optometry. The donation includes frames, lenses, trial sets and click checks, which will significantly enhance the clinic%u2019s services. For many patients who have struggled to afford optical devices, the donation will reduce costs and expand access to essential vision care.One of the key components of the partnership is the provision of 500 frames and lenses, allowing UKZN to offer more affordable spectacles. The variety of frames ensures suitability for the diverse range of patients visiting the clinic, which serves both the general public and UKZN staff and students. %u2018Many patients cannot afford optical devices. This donation will ensure that the price point is significantly reduced, making vision care more accessible,%u2019 explained Ebrahim Khan.OneSight EssilorLuxottica Foundation%u2019s commitment extends beyond just donations. For the first three months, the company will handle all lab scripts, providing customised lenses for patients. From simple distance correction glasses to multifocal lenses, there are no restrictions on the types of glasses that will be provided during this period. UKZN staff and students at the Optometry Clinic on the Westville campus. From left: Mr Simo Banjwa, Ms Aalia Abdul-Gaffoor, Ms Ziyanda Gali, Ms Sandiswa Zulu and Mr Akieel Devraj.