Students from the School of Health Sciences, pursuing Optometry, conducted a vital eye screening and eyeglasses distribution drive at Kaptik Secondary School today. The initiative saw a total of 168 students and staff receive comprehensive eye examinations, with 38 individuals being provided with free corrective eyeglasses.
Precision in action: A KAFU Optometry student conducts a visual acuity test at Kaptik Secondary, ensuring clear vision for all.
The outreach, spearheaded by Dr. Emmanuel Okenwa, the Dean School of Health Sciences, aimed to address prevalent vision challenges within the local community. The Kaimosi Friends University team, comprised of dedicated Optometry students, transformed the school hall into a functional eye clinic, equipped to conduct screenings and dispense eyewear.
"Many of these students and staff have never had access to professional eye care, our goal as the university is not just to provide immediate solutions but to raise awareness about the importance of regular eye health check-ups." stated Dr. Okenwa.
Among the beneficiaries was Dennis, a Form Two student, who was diagnosed with myopia during the screening. Dennis was among the 38 individuals who received eyeglasses on site, immediately experiencing improved vision
"I have been struggling to see the blackboard for a long time which made learning very difficult but today I have been given glasses and I can now clearly see every sentence from far distance, I am so grateful to Kaimosi Friends University for giving another chance to see clearly." he stated.
The Kaimosi Friends University students, applying their theoretical knowledge in a practical setting, performed a range of examinations, including visual acuity tests and refractions. The 38 pairs of eyeglasses provided were meticulously selected to match individual prescriptions, demonstrating the practical application of their academic training.
Focused on every detail: During the KAFU eye screening drive, a dedicated Optometry student examines a teacher's eyes with a torch, a vital step in providing accurate and essential eye care.
This community outreach program highlights KAFU's commitment to corporate social responsibility and its dedication to training health professionals who are responsive to community needs. The initiative is part of the university's broader efforts to improve health outcomes in the region, particularly through its promising but rapidly expanding School of Health Sciences.
The faces behind the vision! Dedicated KAFU Optometry students from the School of Health Sciences, making a real difference in community eye health.
The Kaimosi Friends University team is expected to undertake similar outreach programs next week at Kisasi Primary School in Shamakhokho Ward – Tiriki East and also to other underserved communities, reinforcing the university's role in addressing critical public health issues in Kenya.