• Health

Clear vision for all

Michelline Nawatises

Sanlam, together with its project partner Shaetonhodi Optometrist, recently launched the third edition of a programme known as the Sanlam Vision for Change Project.

Under the project, which is in its third year of operation, a team of optometrists visits selected schools to conduct eye screening tests. Those children who are found to need glasses receive them free of charge.

The project was launched at the Sanlam offices in Outapi and will target three schools at the town. The schools to benefit from the project this year are John Pandeni Junior Secondary School, David Sheehama Senior Secondary School and Errki Tauya Junior Secondary School.

Speaking at the media launch, Sanlam agency manager Roberta da Costa said she sees projects of this nature as an investment in the leaders of tomorrow.

“Sanlam is guaranteeing a bright future and a level playing field for the learners who are to benefit from it,” she said.

Da Costa thanked Shaetonhodi Optometrist for joining the project to help the insurance company to give back to the community.

Optometrist Linna Shaetonhodi stressed the importance of eye screenings. Shaetonhodi said many learners are not even aware of their eye problems and those that are aware of them are often limited because of a lack of resources.

She added that the government has done its part to ensure the children are educated, but it is up to different stakeholders to make contributions through projects like this which assist the government in its quest to educate Namibian children.

Shaetonhodi thanked Sanlam for considering her practice to be a part of this important project and reiterated her commitment to ensuring the project is a success.

Previously the Sanlam Vision for Change project was conducted in Windhoek at Hage Geingob High School, Windhoek High School and Jan Jonker Afrikaner Secondary School in 2017. Last year the project was conducted in the coast at Swakopmund Secondary School, Coastal High School, Kuisebmond Secondary School and Duinesig Combined School. To date, over 2 000 learners have had their eyes tested through this project and over 700 learners have received glasses.

Currently, the team is conducting tests at John Pandeni Junior Secondary School in Outapi. Magdalena Nusiku Jacob is a grade six learner there who has defective vision. Before this project, Magdalena had to sit on the floor closest to the chalkboard to take notes. During examinations, the school allocated Madgalena additional time. Now she will be provided with glasses, which will allow her to develop to her full potential.