Community
The South African School Eye Health Project aims to screen 50 000 school children in three years!
Project will provide support to Government’s Integrated School Health Programme
Ster-Kinekor, Gateway Theatre of Shopping, Durban – 09 October 2014: A young child sits in school, struggling to follow his lesson. The teacher’s notes on the blackboard are a blur, and the child, unable to see past his arm, soon gives up his attempts to concentrate. It seems his poor eyesight will cause him to fail yet another subject – or perhaps, like others in his position, he will drop out of school altogether.
Although a simple eye examination and a pair of spectacles would correct his vision, the lack of access to proper eye care and spectacles has placed him at a severe disadvantage. His avoidable blindness has impeded his learning, which will affect him for the rest of his life. And he is not alone.
It is estimated that six out of every 10 children in South Africa with reduced vision can be corrected with glasses, yet only 20 percent of those children needing glasses, have them. Considering that up to 80% of what children learn is assimilated through their eyes (an estimate), any form of vision impairment can adversely affect a child’s educational growth.
In an effort to address this urgent need, Ster-Kinekor Theatres’ CSI initiative, Vision Mission, has partnered with the Brien Holden Vision Institute, the Provincial Departments of Health and Education and the South African Optometric Association (SAOA), to launch the South African School Eye Health Project.
Launched on World Sight Day today (09 October), the School Eye Health Project aims to support the implementation of eye health services within the government’s national Integrated School Health Programme (ISHP). The project will provide eye care to thousands of disadvantaged learners in five provinces – KwaZulu-Natal, Eastern Cape, Northern Cape, Mpumalanga and Gauteng.
Says Geraldine Engelman, CSI and projects manager of Ster-Kinekor Theatres: “During the three-year project, we plan to screen approximately 50 000 children, and provide free pairs of spectacles to at least 2 500 of those suffering from refractive error and low vision. We will also be launching various other initiatives including health promotions and educational messages to reach an even wider group of children and adults in the targeted provinces.”
At the launch of the School Eye Health Project today, World Sight Day, held at Ster-Kinekor Gateway in Durban, are (from left to right):
Fiaz Mahomed, CEO of Ster-Kinekor Theatres; Prof Kovin Naidoo, Global Programme Director of the Brien Holden Vision Institute; Dr Nina Kriel, President of SAOA (South African Optometric Assn); Jayshree Naidoo, representing the KwaZulu-Natal Dept of Health; with some of the learners who attended the event this morning.
Working in association with various departments within each province, including the Departments of Health, Basic Education and Women, Children and People Living with Disabilities, the objectives of the partnership will be to:
- Contribute resources and skills for refractive and low vision services within the district health system;
- Improve child eye health services through screening, examination and management of vision problems within the ISHP;
- Improve the integration of child eye health into the government’s broader development and disability agenda; and
- Improve the eye health seeking behaviour through appropriate health promotion messages and education.
According to Professor Kovin Naidoo, the Global Programme Director for the Brien Holden Vision Institute, the School Eye Health Project addresses a desperate need. “Our country faces many social and economic challenges. In such a context of competing needs, it is critical that civil society, business and government work together to address children’s needs, since they are one of the most vulnerable groups in our society especially in a climate of limited resources.
“The Brien Holden Vision Institute applauds the concern and caring that Ster-Kinekor and SAOA have shown in supporting government’s Integrated School Health Programme. This Public Private Partnership is a quality investment in the future of our children,” concluded the Professor.
Dr Nina Kriel, President of the SAOA, comments: “It is our wish to contribute to the elimination of avoidable vision impairment and blindness due to refractive error and low vision. Working with our partners in this initiative, it is our aim to render these much-needed services in public schools as a pilot programme initially, in partnership with the various provincial departments. Such an undertaking would not be possible without the valuable input from the private sector, and we are extremely grateful for their enthusiasm and contribution to the project.”
For Ster-Kinekor, sight is integral to appreciating the wonderful and magical world of cinema that is projected onto its big screens. “We are excited to be extending our Vision Mission programme into another area of eye health – the ISHP – and, with the assistance and commitment from our dedicated partners, to launch the South African School Eye Health Project. For us, it is a privilege to be in a position to raise awareness about the importance of eye health, specifically around the prevention and treatment of avoidable blindness, and to give back to the communities in which we operate,” says Engelman.
The aims of Vision Mission are to contribute to the elimination of avoidable blindness in communities across South Africa, and to increase awareness of low vision as a major public health issue. The programme is also aligned to the World Health Organisation’s Universal Eye Health Global Action Plan 2014-2019.
“Being able to walk into a darkened cinema and watch in wonder as a fantastical story unfolds before your eyes, in a larger-than-life format, is a wonderful experience. All our customers who enjoy watching films at our cinemas can also make a difference, simply by making a contribution to the Vision Mission project when purchasing their tickets,” states Engelman.
Customers can contribute to the School Eye Health Project either when booking online (www.sterkinekor.com) or at one of the self-service terminals in the cinema foyer. The public can opt in to make a donation, from as little as R2.50, to Vision Mission when prompted during the booking process. One click is all it takes to give someone with sight impairment the hope for a clearer vision of their future – and every donation will make a difference.
Author: Durbanite
Get ready for the ultimate family outing! South Africa’s legendary musical icons, Mango Groove will, light up the stage at Chris Saunders Park, on Friday 2 May, kicking off at 4pm.
This isn’t just a concert; it’s a fantastic opportunity to create lasting family memories filled with incredible music, delicious food, and exciting activities for everyone.
Join Mango Groove as they bring you the iconic hits that have been the soundtrack to South African life since the 80s. From the moment the first note drops, you’ll be swept away by their smash hits “Special Star,” “Dance Some More,” and all the timeless classics that have defined generations. This is your chance to experience the magic of Mango Groove in a relaxed, family-friendly environment.
What’s in store for the kids?
We’ve got so much lined up:
- Blaster Wars Arena – Ready, aim, and battle it out in a safe and exciting space.
- Jumping Castles – Let them bounce the day away.
- Lego Area – Creativity unleashed with endless building fun.
- Target Shooting – Perfect for little sharpshooters.
- Treasure Hunts & Fun Games – Adventure awaits.
- Dedicated Toddler Zone – Safe and fun play for the tiniest festival-goers.
Tickets to this unmissable family event are a steal, priced between R100 and R250. With convenient, fully stocked bars for the adults and a delicious array of food stalls offering something for everyone, your taste buds will be as happy as your ears!
Date: Friday 2 May
Time: 4-10pm
Venue: Chris Saunders Park
Book your tickets now and get ready for an unforgettable day of music and fun!
Tickets are available for purchase online at WebTickets.
Follow In The Park here for more upcoming music events. You do not want to miss out on the rest of the events they have planned for you!
Author: Shelley
It’s fresh, bright and chockfull of surprises! It’s the 2025 East Coast Radio House & Garden Show, and we’re talking fresh spaces. bright living! A giant breath of fresh air will sweep through the Durban Exhibition Centre when the Show rolls out from Friday 28 June to Sunday 6 July.
fresh spaces. bright living is all about how to tweak or transform your home into one which brings you joy, and allows you to be you! Whether it’s little touches of stylish decor or large sweeps of bold colour and pattern, you’ll leave the Show bursting with new skills from the experts, bright ideas from different brands… and loads of goodies and parcels. Jump on board, the 2025 East Coast Radio House + Garden Show promises to fill your head with creativity to create your own fresh spaces. bright living.
Calling all cooks and homemakers!
This year’s Test Kitchen is the kitchen of the future! Hirsch is at the helm and The Kitchen Studio is creating a space that’ll knock your socks off. Top celebrity chefs (surprises up our sleeve), fabulous personalities (guess who?), crazy cooks (laughter is the best medicine)… the line-up is as long as it is sensational! If cooking’s your happy place, the Hirsch kitchen is the only place to be.
The 2025 East Coast Radio House + Garden Show is going to be child’s play!
This is Durban’s true family show, and we’ve got you well covered for the first week of the school holidays! From littlelies to larger, this year’s kids zone has mushroomed into its own dedicated hall, and has way, way more of what they love! And parents, this one’s for you. Drop and shop – there’s now a super-safe, well supervised drop-off zone, so you can do your thing, while they do theirs. A dedicated Kids Zone in the Coast of Dreams, with a whacky wonderland of activities. Packed with fun, yet competitive, activities and challenges, teens can put their skills to the test! From the incredible Monster Manor to fairytale characters to face-painting, wrestling and bowling, the kids just won’t want to go home.
The East Coast Radio House + Garden Show is always full of winners…
And why shouldn’t it be you? With competitions big and small, you could carry home anything from the coolest kitchen appliance to the hottest sound system, a tantalising voucher to something or somewhere sensational or bags full of your favourite products.
This season, the Show is shining a full spotlight on fresh spaces, bright living, both outdoors and in! Plants, landscaping and new tricks and tools for garden lovers; boys’ toys and bits and bobs for outdoor lovers; and goodies and gadgets for those who live to braai! Renovating, restoring or dreaming of adventure, the Show will take you where you want to go.
We can’t wait to see you there!
www.housegardenshow.co.za
Author: Shelley
The Supertech Torque Motoring Festival is set to return to Dezzi Raceway on April 19th and 20th, 2025.
This annual event, organized by the Supertech Group, promises a weekend filled with high-speed action, family-friendly activities, and entertainment.
Event Highlights:
- Hot Laps & Drifting: Experience the thrill of high-speed laps and drifting exhibitions.
- Custom Dip Experience: Showcases of vehicle customization and styling.
- BMW M Driving Experience Show: A display of BMW’s performance vehicles in action.
- Spin Show Extravaganza: Professional drivers performing precision stunts.
- Official BMW Merchandise Pop-Up Store: Exclusive merchandise available for purchase.
- Circuit Racing Action: Competitive racing events featuring various classes.
- Stunt Shows & Historic Feats: Daring performances and record attempts.
- Helicopter Flips: Aerial tours offering a unique perspective of the event.
- Torque Fashion Show & Concours: A blend of automotive excellence and fashion.
- Miniature Radio-Control Car Track: Interactive activities for all ages.
- M Lounge: An exclusive area for Supertech M & M Performance customers.
- VIP Hospitality Lounge: Premium services and amenities for VIP guests.
- Family Fun Time: Activities and entertainment suitable for families.
Ticket Information:
- General Access: R200 (Available Online)
- Kids (Under 10 Years): Free (Available Online)
- VIP Access: R1500 (Includes private viewing deck, seating, complimentary snacks, and beverages)
- Hot Laps: R300 (Available exclusively on the MySupertechWorld App)
- Drift Rides: R350 (Available exclusively on the MySupertechWorld App)
- Helicopter Flips: R750 (Available exclusively on the MySupertechWorld App)
Daily Schedule:
Saturday, April 19th:
- 09:00 AM – 09:45 AM: Circuit Racing – Session 1
- 10:00 AM – 10:45 AM: Hot Laps
- 11:00 AM – 11:45 AM: Drifting Show
- 12:00 PM – 12:45 PM: Drift Rides
- 01:00 PM – 01:45 PM: Spinning Show
- 02:00 PM – 02:45 PM: Stunt Show – SA Record Attempt
- 03:00 PM – 03:45 PM: Circuit Racing – Session 2
- 03:00 PM – 04:00 PM: Auction
- 04:00 PM – 04:30 PM: Fashion Show
- 04:45 PM – 05:00 PM: M Car Convoy Parade Lap
Sunday, April 20th:
- 09:00 AM – 09:45 AM: Circuit Racing – Session 1
- 10:00 AM – 10:45 AM: Hot Laps
- 11:00 AM – 11:45 AM: Drifting Show
- 12:00 PM – 12:45 PM: Drift Rides
- 01:00 PM – 01:45 PM: Spinning Show
- 02:00 PM – 02:45 PM: Stunt Show – SA Record Attempt
- 03:00 PM – 03:45 PM: Circuit Racing – Session 2
- 03:00 PM – 04:00 PM: Fashion Show
Additional Information:
To enhance the festival experience, attendees are encouraged to download the MySupertechWorld App, which offers exclusive access to certain tickets and up-to-date event information. The festival is designed to cater to all ages, making it an ideal outing for families, car enthusiasts, and those seeking a weekend of excitement.
For more details and ticket purchases, visit the official Supertech Group website or follow their social media channels for the latest updates.
Don’t miss out on this premier motoring event that brings together speed, style, and entertainment in one exhilarating festival.
Author: Shelley
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