Transforming Lives: Sanlam's Vision for Change Initiative Empowering Learners in Namibia
For Geziah Coetzee, a bright and ambitious student at WJD Cloete Combined School, the struggles of the past two years were overwhelming. As her eyesight deteriorated, a simple task like reading from the chalkboard became a monumental challenge. “Whenever I enter a sunlit room, my vision blurs,” she shared, detailing how this daily hurdle impacted her academic performance and self-esteem.
Geziah’s story is not uncommon in the Hardap region of Namibia, where numerous students face similar challenges due to poor eyesight. Recognizing the urgent need for support, Sanlam launched its Vision for Change initiative five years ago, aiming to provide free vision screenings and much-needed prescription glasses to learners who require assistance.
This year, the fifth edition of the initiative kicked off in May and has already made a significant impact, reaching students across 28 schools in Hardap in just two phases. This collaboration with Shaetonhodi Optics has provided screenings and tests for learners in towns such as Aranos, Stampriet, Gochas, and Mariental. A pivotal moment occurred recently in Mariental, where 288 students received their new glasses during a special ceremony held at the Teachers’ Resource Hall.
The event, which brought together the Governor of Hardap and local educators, shone a light on the critical role of vision in academic success. Sanlam Group CEO Tertius Stears expressed his pride, stating, “Education is the foundation of a prosperous future, and by combating poor eyesight, we empower learners to realize their full potential.”
Speaking on behalf of the recipients, Geziah echoed this gratitude, highlighting how Sanlam’s collaboration with Shaetonhodi Optics was not just commendable but life-changing. “Knowing that we are valued and supported makes all the difference,” she said, her eyes shining with pride as she sporting her new glasses.
This year, Sanlam invested over N0,000 to ensure that no child goes without adequate eye care. By establishing mobile testing stations at each participating school, Sanlam and Shaetonhodi Optics traveled more than 2,400 kilometers to ensure students in remote areas received vital services. Mrs. Shaetonhodi from Shaetonhodi Optics stated, “Each pair of glasses is a doorway to a brighter future, enabling learners to engage fully and gain confidence.”
Juanitha Motinga, Chief Education Officer for Professional Development at the Ministry of Education, Arts, and Culture, underscored the transformative power of Vision for Change. “This initiative goes beyond just sight; it’s about empowering these children to dream bigger and learn better,” she explained.
Since its launch in 2017, Vision for Change has positively impacted the lives of over 2,000 learners throughout Namibia, with 520 being evaluated and tested in Hardap this year alone. As Sanlam continues to invest in the future of Namibia’s youth, they remain committed to expanding the initiative into new regions annually, fostering an inclusive and hopeful future for all learners.
With ongoing efforts like these, we can look forward to a generation of empowered students who are equipped with the resources to excel not just academically, but in every aspect of their lives.
Tags: #Education #Tourism #WorldNews #Namibia
