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UNIVERSITY OF KWAZULU-NATAL FOUNDATION 11%u2018This generosity allows us to meet the full spectrum of vision needs, from distance to near and intermediate vision,%u2019 added Ebrahim Khan.In addition to enhancing patient care, the donation is a gamechanger for UKZN%u2019s optometry students. A complete set of optometry equipment can cost upwards of R30 000, and many students struggle to afford it. The donated trial sets will allow students to practice clinical procedures without this financial burden, ensuring that all students, regardless of their financial background, have the tools they need to succeed.The hands-on experience gained at the clinic is invaluable to students%u2019 professional development. %u2018Students serve a minimum number of hours in the clinic, supervised by registered optometrists. This training forms the core of their professional growth,%u2019 said Ebrahim Khan. The UKZN Optometry Clinic has been a cornerstone of the University%u2019s health services for 35 years, offering vision care to the public and contributing to the training of future optometrists. This partnership will enhance the clinic%u2019s outreach efforts, allowing it to serve more patients at a faster rate through the use of click checks, which streamline vision screening processes.With cost-effective spectacles now available, the clinic anticipates an increase in patient numbers over the coming months. The clinic has already begun spreading the word about these affordable services through local newspapers, UKZN%u2019s internal communications and referrals from public hospitals.UKZN Optometry and OneSight EssilorLuxottica Foundation are exploring future collaborations, including the continuation of reduced rates for spectacles. One particularly exciting venture is the %u2018Vula Amehlo%u2019 initiative, which aims to establish optometry practices in rural areas of KwaZulu-Natal. Graduates will receive practice management training and, ultimately, ownership of the practice %u2013 at no cost to them. This programme Optometry student Ms Sinethemba Mlotshwa with one of the donated pairs of glasses. The Clinic%u2019s Optical Dispenser Ms Ziyanda Gali (right) and Optometry student Mr Akieel Devraj (left) gain hands-on experience with donated eye care equipment. %u2018This partnership strengthens the incredible work that UKZN Optometry does, often with limited resources. It%u2019s about helping them reach more people and improving the lives of those in need.%u2019MS LAMEEZ EKSTEEN, COUNTRY MANAGER FOR ONESIGHT ESSILORLUXOTTICA FOUNDATION, SOUTH AFRICA