News24 | WATCH | Joburg schoolchildren are seeing better, thanks to reading glass donation

A group of schoolchildren in Joburg are seeing their surroundings a little better.

On Thursday, Gauteng's MEC for Health and Wellness, Nomantu Nkomo-Ralehoko, handed out free prescription glasses to visually impaired pupils.

"Our vision is one of the most precious senses that enable us to experience the world in all its beauty and complexity," she said, speaking at the Phillip Kushlivk Special School at Chris Hani Baragwanath Academic Hospital in Soweto.

The glasses were handed over to celebrate World Sight Day, an initiative encouraging people to prioritise eye health and to conduct eye tests every two years. 

READ | Record number of surgeries performed to restore patients’ eyesight

"We have a responsibility to nurture and protect our children's eye health... let's work together to ensure that we protect our kids at an early age." 

According to the World Health Organisation, reducing screen time and spending more time outside can protect children from developing short-sightedness.  

Nkomo-Ralehoko said Thursday's drive would be one of many across the province to ensure that young people could see better - at a low cost.

"Our children are the future of our country, and their vision is very important for our brighter tomorrow."

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