Improving vision and learning outcomes for students in South Africa

What’s the issue?

Across many under‑resourced communities in South Africa, poor eyesight remains an overlooked challenge affecting children’s ability to learn. Undiagnosed or untreated vision problems can significantly impact literacy, concentration and academic performance, limiting a learner’s ability to fully engage in school. For families with limited access to healthcare, eye testing and corrective eyewear are frequently out of reach, leaving children to struggle unnecessarily in the classroom.

How are we addressing it?

To help address this challenge, Forvis Mazars in South Africa partnered with the African Eye Institute to deliver free, high‑quality eye‑health services directly to learners in underdeveloped schools. The programme focuses on providing comprehensive eye screenings and examinations, identifying vision issues early and ensuring children receive the support they need.

Where required, learners are provided with prescription glasses to immediately improve their eyesight and classroom experience. In cases requiring more specialised care, students are referred to hospitals for further consultation and treatment, ensuring continuity of care beyond the initial screening.

What’s the lasting impact?

By improving access to eye care and corrective vision support, this partnership helps learners get equal access to education so that they can participate more confidently and engage more fully in the studies. Beyond immediate improvements in classroom learning, the programme supports long‑term educational outcomes, helping children build the foundations they need to succeed at school and beyond.