EssilorLuxottica and the Roger Federer Foundation Collaborate in Zambia
EssilorLuxottica, through its OneSight Foundation, has partnered with the Roger Federer Foundation to provide free vision care to children in Zambia, according to a press release.
Launch of a Pilot Project
In October, coinciding with World Sight Day on October 9, the OneSight EssilorLuxottica Foundation and the Roger Federer Foundation launched a pilot project in Zambia, providing vision screenings to over 2,700 students in the districts of Mazabuka, Mbala, and Nyimba. According to the press release, more than 200 recipients received either glasses or sunglasses on-site at no cost. This initiative marks the first outcome of the collaboration between the two foundations, merging the long-standing presence of the Roger Federer Foundation in Zambia's educational sector with the global expertise of the OneSight EssilorLuxottica Foundation in vision care.
Collaborative Efforts and Future Plans
The Roger Federer Foundation and its local partners facilitated access to schools, coordinated with teachers, and supported mobilization efforts. On its part, the OneSight EssilorLuxottica Foundation conducted the vision screenings and provided glasses, while also supplying the necessary data collection tools and materials. An evaluation report will be produced to inform future projects in Zambia and elsewhere. Roger Federer emphasized the importance of this collaboration by stating that good vision is crucial for education and the future of children.
Valuable Lessons Learned
Valuable insights were gained during this initial phase, which will influence future actions, including the training of teachers as a central element. According to the press release, this strategy aims to equip teachers to perform basic vision screenings, ensure referrals to vision centers, and integrate these exams into student enrollment, with the goal of building a sustainable system to identify and address vision problems early.
