Masinde Muliro University’s Optometry Students Association (MMUOSA) has joined the global community in celebrating World Optometry Week from 17 to 21 March 2025, by offering free eye screening services to the public. This initiative is aimed at raising awareness about the importance of eye health, with a focus on the early detection of eye conditions that can potentially lead to vision loss.
The week-long event themed saw the association set up a screening unit at the University Graduation Square, and will extend the eye screening exercise at the Remand Children’s Home in Kakamega County. The event provided an opportunity to the Optometry students to apply their skills while making a direct impact on the community’s health.
The Vice Chancellor Prof. Solomon Shibairo noted that the preventable vision impairment remains a significant challenge worldwide, and it is encouraging to see our students actively participating in raising awareness and offering solutions to the community.
The Vice Chancellor Prof. Solomon Shibairo receives donated Optometry equipment from the COD Optometry and Vision Science- Dr. Julius Rono. Flanking the Vice Chancellor; the Ag. DVC PRI- Prof. Peter Bukhala, Dr. Evans Raballah and MMUOSA President- Mr. Stanley Amolo.
The Dean of the School of Public Health School of Public Health, Biomedical Sciences & Technology (SPHBST)- Dr. Evans Raballah applauded the Optometrists for their dedication towards promoting eye health. “This week presents a unique opportunity for us to reflect on the critical role of eye health in overall well-being and the contribution of optometrists in preserving vision. I encourage members of the community to take advantage of the screenings and learn more about how they can protect their vision,” stated Dr. Raballah.
Speaking at the event, the Chairperson of the Department of Optometry and Vision Science- Dr. Julius Rono emphasized the importance of making eye care accessible to everyone, especially to communities that may not have easy access to professional optometric services. “We are committed to educating the public about the importance of eye health, and this initiative aims to reduce the potential risk of vision loss across all age groups. Early detection can make a significant difference in the treatment and management of many eye conditions,” said Dr. Rono.
Dr. Julius Rono attending to one of the patients.
Highlighting the services the Optometrists offered, the Outreach Coordinator- Dr. Andrew Wekesa noted that the free screenings included tests for common eye issues such as refractive errors, cataracts, glaucoma, and other preventable eye diseases. “We are proud of our Optometry students for their dedication to serving the community. Through their efforts, they are not only enhancing their practical skills but also making a tangible difference in people’s lives by improving their vision,” said Dr. Wekesa.
Optometrists; Mr. Alfred Ragot, Dr. Andrew Wekesa and Ms. Shillah Nangena at a past event.
Patients who require further treatment and more specialized care were referred for further treatment. As World Optometry Week continues, MMUOSA plans to host additional activities including webinars and a gala dinner aimed at educating the public about the importance of vision care and promoting eye health. With a focus on preventive care and early intervention, the initiative is expected to have a lasting impact on the community’s awareness and access to optometric services.
One of the Optometry students conducting eye screening during the event.
Commending his fellow Optometrists, the President of MMUOSA appreciated the University Management for allowing them to be part of the global celebration of World Optometry Week 2025. “I am incredibly proud of the students from the Optometry Department who have worked tirelessly to make this event a success. We have been well trained to provide high-quality screenings, and we are dedicated to serving our community with care and professionalism. This is also an important learning experience for us, as we get to apply our skills in real-world situations and contribute to the health and well-being of the community around us.
Optometry students conducting eye screening during the event.
The association’s outreach efforts have been lauded by both local residents and other students who were examined. MMUOSA plans to expand its reach by organizing further events and workshops to continue promoting the importance of eye care. Certainly, this event is part of a larger global activities during World Optometry Week which celebrates the contributions of optometrists in championing vision care globally.
By Linet Owuor
Photos by Shiundu Masafu
