03/09/2026
Early Eye Screening Gives Learners a Clearer Path to Success
By Nomahlubi Hadebe
Every learner deserves the opportunity to see clearly, learn confidently and reach their full potential. Yet, undetected vision problems can quietly become a barrier to learning, participation and academic performance.
SANCB’s eye care division, the Bureau for the Prevention of Blindness, recently conducted an eye screening initiative at Sizwe Secondary School in Germiston, helping identify learners who may need further eye care and support.
The initiative was generously supported by Reckitt, whose contribution is helping bring essential eye health services closer to young people. Learners identified as needing spectacles will receive them, helping them engage more effectively in the classroom and with their schoolwork.
Learners experiencing minor eye allergies were also assisted by SANCB nurses, who provided appropriate eye drops.
“Good vision is fundamental to education. A learner who struggles to see the board, read textbooks or focus on classroom work may find learning more difficult, without necessarily realising that their eyesight is the problem.”
William Matikabo, Nurse, Bureau for the Prevention of Blindness
William emphasised the importance of reaching children while they are still at school: “Regular eye screening among school-going children and young people gives us an opportunity to identify vision challenges early and ensure that learners receive the appropriate support they need.”
At SANCB, we believe that early detection can help prevent avoidable difficulties from affecting a learner's education, confidence, concentration and participation in school life.
Principal Mr David Khoza welcomed the initiative and expressed his appreciation, while also highlighting the importance of expanding the number of learners who can benefit from future screenings.
The initiative also brought an inspiring dimension to the day. Mr Nolan, IT &D Manager Factories (MENARP & Africa) at Reckitt, attended with his team, who hosted a career day for learners.
The programme was about more than eye health as it also guided the young people to see their future more clearly, both literally and figuratively.
SANCB is grateful to Reckitt, Sizwe Secondary School, the school leadership, educators, learners and everyone involved in making this initiative possible.
