Learners can see their futures more clearly now
Discovery Primary Full Service School, in collaboration with the University of Johannesburg's optometry students, conducted eye tests for the learners.
Learners at Discovery Primary Full Service School were treated to a wonderful opportunity on April 12, when University of Johannesburg’s (UJ) final-year optometry students provided complimentary eye tests free of charge, supporting the learners’ vision and well-being.
On the day, the school hall was buzzing with activity as the students actively engaged learners in many eye assessments. From colour co-ordination and visual acuity tests to eye alignment checks and visual processing evaluations, the learners were thoroughly assessed while parents observed with interest, supporting their children’s eye health.
Maryam Laher, who is the school’s occupational therapist alongside Kim Paul, a teacher, and the school support team on the day, say they have organised this project because they believe that vision is the first point of learning. They say many foundational learning tasks – like reading, writing, and engaging with the classroom environment – rely heavily on a child’s visual abilities.
“By offering free eye testing through our partnership with UJ students, we hope to identify any undiagnosed vision difficulties early on. This allows us to support our learners more effectively and remove barriers that may be affecting their academic performance and self-confidence. Our goal is to ensure that every child has the best possible chance to succeed in the classroom and beyond,” they said.
“It’s a wonderful initiative that benefits both the learners and the students.”
At the end of the testing, learners who needed spectacles were given free of charge.
