Opening new worlds
Our 2025 Vision is Vital initiative took us to East London in the Eastern Cape, where we continued expanding our mission to open new worlds for young learners.
Through free eye screenings and the provision of prescription spectacles to 1,311 learners at Lukhanyo Primary School and Gcobani Intermediate Primary School, we unlocked potential – one pair of glasses at a time.
Imagine being a learner who struggles to keep up in class because you can’t see the board, can’t afford a pair of spectacles, and may even be bullied because of it? Now, imagine the joy of suddenly seeing clearly – the confidence, the freedom, the belief that you can shine. That is what drives us!
Community inspiration
We are deeply inspired by community leaders such as Miss Bukelwa Sitole, Principal of Lukhanyo Primary School, whose motto “Sohlala Sikhanya” (We will stay shining) could not be more fitting, and Mr Simphiwe Qobosha, Principal of Gcobani Intermediate Primary School. Alongside their school governing bodies and dedicated parents, they remind children that humble beginnings are not their final destination.
A heartfelt thank you to our partner, Vision 4 Change, and other supporters who continue to walk this incredible journey with us, including Sanlam, which committed to supporting the 2026 Vision 4 Change fitment cycle that will take place in Cape Town when schools reopen.
Improving educational outcomes
The Department of Education identified vision among school children within public schools as one of its major educational challenges. Vision is Vital, a national intervention led by Vision 4 Change, aims to improve the educational outcomes of learners by addressing undiagnosed vision problems.
The initiative provides:
- Free vision screening by qualified optometrists
- Prescription spectacles for learners with visual impairments
- And for 2025, school shoes (in partnership with My Walk and Sanlam)
The programme is implemented in partnership with the Department of Education and local school leadership to ensure maximum impact and sustainability.
Since its inception in 2017, Vision is Vital has screened over 8,356 learners and dispensed 519 prescription spectacles across 12 schools in seven provinces. Each pair of glasses represents more than improved vision – it’s a step toward academic success, self-esteem, and opportunity.
“Together, we are empowering futures. And yes, we will stay shining.”
