Healthy vision is essential for learners to support success in the classroom, with professionals reporting that early eye examinations are preferable in order to detect visual problems. Recognising this, free eye examinations were administered to learners at Naastdrift Primary and Doornbaai Primary, in the small town of Vredendal, resulting in over 30 learners being identified as having sight problems, and subsequently receiving the necessary assistance, including spectacles.
“We are committed to making a lasting difference in the lives of learners in our community through this project. This has translated into positive academic results and improved reading amongst learners that received spectacles – which is truly heartwarming,” said Shariefa Rhode, Communities Operations Manager for Vredendal Solar, which funds this project.
Due to the success of this initiative, Vredendal Solar, in partnership with Maartens Optometrists, has decided to continue its efforts by offering free eye tests and spectacles at an additional two schools in the area. The project will run throughout the year, benefitting learners at Vergenoeg Primary and Vredendal Secondary Schools.
“We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the Vredendal Solar Community Trust for their generous sponsorship of spectacles for our learners. The spectacles have helped improve learners’ reading abilities and academic performance. With their newfound self-confidence, we believe these learners will continue to excel academically,” said Mr. Gerrie Cilliers, Naastdrift Primary School Principal.
The long-term goal of this project is to ensure that learners in the community have access to quality healthcare by providing regular eye tests.
“Early eye examinations are crucial to make sure children have normal, healthy vision so they can perform better at schoolwork and of course play too,” concluded Rhode.
