UJ to screen Lenasia seniors with eye care and wellness services on World Sight Day

The University of Johannesburg’s Department of Optometry, in partnership with the South African Optometric Association (SAOA), will screen hundreds of elderly residents in Lenasia South on World Sight Day, October 9, 2025.

As part of the university’s commitment to societal impact, third- and fourth-year optometry students will provide comprehensive eye tests, advice, glasses where needed, and referrals for more complex cases.

In addition, the Faculty of Health Sciences will bring together departments including podiatry, emergency medical services, chiropractic, sports and movement, and the water and health research centre to provide a holistic health experience for the community.

The outreach will take place at Emmanuel Christian Fellowship Church, 5689 Kouga Street, Lenasia South ext 4, at 9am.

Professor Nabeela Hasrod Gany, Head of UJ’s Department of Optometry, highlighted the deeper purpose of the initiative:

“At UJ’s Department of Optometry, we see every pair of eyes as a human story. Our Lenasia South outreach for the elderly is about more than vision checks, it’s about restoring independence, dignity and connection. On World Sight Day 2025, we reaffirm our pledge: to heal, to prevent and to champion the right of every South African to clear sight.”

World Sight Day, observed annually on the second Thursday of October, aims to raise awareness about blindness and vision impairment. This year’s theme, #LoveYourEyes, emphasises the importance of prioritising eye health and making eye care accessible, available, and affordable for all.