The vision has always been clear at the University of Johannesburg’s (UJ) Optometry Clinic: to deliver comprehensive, high-quality eye care tailored to the diverse communities it serves. This was affirmed by Dr Nabeela Hasrod, Head of the Department of Optometry in the Faculty of Health Sciences, during the official launch of a new Branded Eyewear range at the UJ Optometry Clinic on Tuesday, 8 April 2025.
Speaking at the event, Dr Hasrod noted that the launch is part of a broader vision to enhance the clinic’s offerings while remaining responsive to the changing demands of healthcare and patient expectations.
Welcoming guests, Professor Annie Temane, Executive Dean of the Faculty of Health Sciences, said the launch demonstrated the department’s commitment, creativity and expertise, as well as UJ’s broader vision of delivering practical, forward-thinking education. “This project is about more than just eyewear,” she said. “It’s about shaping the future of optometry, ensuring our students are equipped with the skills and knowledge to succeed in a rapidly evolving industry. Let this launch serve as a reminder of the great future that lies ahead—one in which the University remains at the forefront of education, innovation, and societal impact.”
With the addition of designer frames to the clinic’s already affordable selection, the department aims to serve a wider range of patients. “The eyewear industry has seen a surge in demand for branded and luxury items,” explained Dr Hasrod. “Many of our patients prioritise both style and affordability. By offering a mix of high-end and budget-friendly frames, we ensure that every patient can make choices that reflect their needs and lifestyles. This is about staying ahead of market trends and positioning ourselves as a progressive, patient-centred clinic.”
Eye Give Back: A vision for societal change
Aligned with UJ’s strategic objective of societal impact, the Optometry Department also announced the launch of a new community engagement initiative: Eye Give Back. This initiative aims to connect the University with broader communities through meaningful outreach and service.
“This is more than a campaign,” said Dr Hasrod. “It’s a movement—an invitation for volunteers, sponsors, donors and citizens to change lives through better vision.”
The mission of Eye Give Back is to improve access to essential eye care services by offering free eye exams, educational workshops, and eyewear donations to under-resourced communities. The department has also launched a user-friendly webpage where the public can track upcoming activities and find ways to get involved.
“Better vision builds better communities,” Dr Hasrod added. “Through this initiative, we bridge the gap between academic excellence and compassionate service.”
UJ Vice-Chancellor and Principal, Professor Letlhokwa Mpedi, echoed these sentiments, describing the clinic’s work as both impactful and inspiring. As a longstanding client of the clinic himself, Prof Mpedi praised its high standard of care and wide range of eyewear options. “What moves me most is the clinic’s commitment to ensuring that vulnerable groups have access to quality eye care,” he said. “Providing the gift of sight is among the greatest contributions we can make to society.”
He also applauded the department’s partnerships, particularly with the Department of Correctional Services and Transnet’s Phelophepa Healthcare Train—a mobile clinic providing free health services in rural communities. “This is what societal impact looks like. It’s truly God’s work,” he said.
Training future optometrists for purposeful impact
The UJ Optometry Clinic’s “Soc-eye-tal Impact” team reflected on the department’s continued involvement in key outreach programmes, including the long-standing collaboration with the Phelophepa Healthcare Train, now in its 31st year. UJ optometry students are deployed in two-week rotations throughout the year, providing vital services in some of South Africa’s most underserved communities.
The launch event was attended by members of the UJ MEC, including Dr Mpoti Ralephata, Chief Operations Officer, and Professor Sehaam Khan, Deputy Vice-Chancellor: Academic. Also present were representatives from EyeCare for Kids, the South African Optometric Association (SAOA), and corporate partners such as SIMA Eyewear and Falcon Eyewear.
As poor vision continues to disproportionately affect marginalised populations—limiting educational opportunities and economic participation—the Department of Optometry remains committed to inclusivity, research-driven solutions and student engagement. Through its initiatives, UJ continues to honour its legacy of excellence while ensuring that no one is left behind.
