AngloGold Ashanti has joined the Vision 4 Change team to deliver prescription spectacles to 42 learners in its host areas of Matlosana and Merafong. The company donated R362 208.89 towards this programme that aims to change the lives of young children who are visually impaired.

In Merafong, an amount of R210 093 was used to fund the testing of learners from Wedela and Khutsong South Primary Schools. In Matlosana a further R152 115 was funded to identify children with visual impairment at Khuma and Kediemetse Primary Schools. Through the funding, a total of
2 233 children were tested, resulting in 18 children in Merafong and 24 in Matlosana being fitted with prescription spectacles. All the tests were done by a qualified optometrist, Werner Fourie, who has partnered with Vision 4 Change to make an impact on the lives of these children.

The project is primarily aimed at underprivileged children whose parents cannot afford a consultation with an optometrist or do not have the necessary means to access treatment. Vision among school children is one of the educational challenges identified within public schools. Studies show that 80% of what a child learns takes place through visual pathways and poor vision can be disruptive. Good visual perception is necessary for effective learning, school achievement and sporting abilities. Poor vision can lead to poor cognitive development, which can prevent a child from developing to his or her full potential.

In early September, employees from AGA were at the schools to deliver the spectacles to the 42 learners. “The project was a huge success and made a significant impact in these schools. Not only did it make a difference in the lives of the learners, but also the educators who can now teach without constraints,” said Chanelle van Niekerk, a junior fundraiser at Vision 4 Change.

Sinovuyo Naki, a Grade 4 learner at Wedela Primary School was excited to having received a set of spectacles. “I am so happy because now I can see clearly in class. I am hopeful that this will improve my performance and grades,” he said.

Ephraim Moalusi, the Principal at Khutsong South Primary School, said the initiative will make such a difference in the learners academic studies. He added that most of the learners who received their new spectacles, have been performing poorly in class and that they will now be able to monitor whether the intervention will improve their academic performance and be able to see change.