UCC School of Optometry receives $8,000 eye care equipment donation from alumnus

The School of Optometry and Vision Science at the University of Cape Coast (UCC) has received a significant boost in its mission to train the next generation of eye care professionals, following a donation of clinical equipment valued at $8,000 from an alumnus.

The donation, presented by Dr. Abraham Gaitu, Chief Executive Officer of Salaria Eyemed and Optical Suppliers, a subsidiary of KEM Groupe, includes two ophthalmic units, four illuminated visual acuity charts, colour vision charts, trial lens sets, and trial lens frames. These tools are essential for hands-on training in optometry, allowing students to practice essential diagnostic and procedural skills.

Dr. Gaitu, who graduated from UCC in 2016, framed the donation as the fulfillment of a promise made during the school’s maiden White Coat Ceremony. He also tied the gesture to the celebration of 25 years of optometry training at the institution, marking a decade since his own graduation.

“It is also significant for me because it marks a decade of my optometry practice. Having completed the University of Cape Coast in 2016, I am back to my alma mater to say ‘thank you’,” Dr. Gaitu stated during the presentation ceremony.

He expressed hope that the equipment would be “put to good use to help train the next generation of optometrists and bridge the gap in access to quality eye care.”

The equipment was received on behalf of the school by the Acting Vice Chancellor, Professor Denis Worlanyo Aheto, who described the gesture as “inspiring.” He used the opportunity to call upon other alumni across the university’s programs to contribute to the institution’s advancement, whether through funding, equipment, or other forms of support.

“Our alumnus is contributing to eye care and the eye support system through his initiative. Coming back to give to the University is very encouraging. I want to use this medium not just to thank him but to ask other alumni across programmes in the University to come back and support in various ways.”

Professor Aheto further emphasized the practical impact of the donation, noting that with the growing number of students, the equipment will be vital not only for training but also for research, enabling students to build competencies in eye care.

Salaria Eyemed and Optical Suppliers, headquartered in Ho with branches in Accra, Ho, Denu, and Atimpoku, has demonstrated a commitment to giving back to the educational institution that launched Dr. Gaitu’s career.

This donation comes at a time when the University of Cape Coast is striving to enhance its facilities and maintain its reputation as a center of excellence in health sciences education in West Africa. The institution has been working to expand its practical training resources to meet the increasing demand for qualified optometrists in the region.

The initiative also aligns with broader efforts to strengthen eye care services in Ghana, where access to specialized eye care remains limited, particularly in rural areas. By investing in the training infrastructure at UCC, the donor is contributing to a long-term solution for improving eye health outcomes nationwide.

In recent years, the school has faced challenges in securing adequate equipment for practical training, which is a critical component of optometry education. The donation addresses an immediate need and sets a precedent for alumni engagement in supporting the institution’s academic mission.

The White Coat Ceremony, a tradition that marks the beginning of clinical training for optometry students, has been a significant event for the school. Dr. Gaitu’s reference to his promise made during this ceremony highlights the lasting impact of such events on alumni sentiment and their willingness to give back.

Looking ahead, the school plans to integrate the new equipment into its curriculum immediately, ensuring that current and future students benefit from the enhanced learning environment. The administration is also exploring partnerships with other organizations to further expand its resources and improve the quality of optometry education in Ghana.

As the University of Cape Coast continues to grow and evolve, contributions like this from its alumni play a vital role in sustaining its commitment to excellence and community service. The donation not only enriches the educational experience but also strengthens the bond between the institution and its graduates, fostering a culture of mutual support and shared success.

The appointment of Professor Aheto as Acting Vice Chancellor, following his recent confirmation in the role, underscores the leadership’s commitment to advancing the university’s academic and infrastructural capabilities. See related article: /university-of-cape-coast-appoints-prof-denis-aheto-as-new-vice-chancellor

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