For a child who cannot see the board clearly, every lesson is harder than it should be. In Matlosana and Maquassi Hills, that barrier is being lifted for learners who may otherwise never have had an eye test, or a pair of spectacles.
This year alone, 260 learners have had their vision screened through, and 60 have received free prescription spectacles. Teachers are already reporting improvements in learners’ ability to read and greater confidence in the classroom. Of the vision needs identified, approximately 90% were addressed immediately.
“The programme is very good. It helps learners with accessing services which they may struggle to access due to financial difficulties. It also helps in identifying underlying issues which usually go unnoticed. The programme addresses the limitations of the healthcare system,” said McMillan Sebitloane, principal of Thakadu Primary School, and Goloane Phahla, principal of Tiragalo Primary School.
Delivered in partnership with Innovo Mobile Health, the vision component forms part of Bokamoso Solar’s broader Mobile Health Programme, which brings essential healthcare services closer to communities and schools. Introduced in 2022 in response to the need for accessible eye care, the initiative allows learners to be screened, assessed and, where needed, fitted with prescription spectacles for free and without having to travel long distances.
“Access to healthcare and access to education are closely connected. When a child cannot see properly, something as simple as reading a textbook or seeing the board can become a challenge. By providing vision screening and spectacles at no cost, we are helping to address one of the barriers that can affect a learner’s ability to participate and thrive at school,” said kebapiste Dipitse, Social Performance Practitioner for Bokamoso Solar.
Launched in 2021, the Mobile Health Programme has delivered over 1000 healthcare services this year, including primary healthcare, dental services, optometry and health education, benefiting 311 people across eight schools in Kanana, Kgakala, Rulaganyang and Tswelelang.
