25/11/2025
Cardiff University Ophthalmology Students’ Visit and Malawi Outreach
On Monday, November 24, four third-year students from the Cardiff University Ophthalmology Department visited the Club to share their recent experiences and achievements.
Malawi Eye Care Initiative
The students were part of a team that traveled to Malawi, located in Southeast Africa, for a month-long outreach project. Their primary objective was to provide essential eye tests and distribute spectacles to communities that otherwise would have little or no access to eye care services. In these communities, obtaining eye glasses would be financially unfeasible for many individuals.
Prior to their departure, the team collected more than 750 pairs of donated spectacles. Each pair was optically checked to ensure suitability for distribution. These glasses were then provided to individuals in need, greatly enhancing their quality of life by improving their vision.
In addition to vision screenings and the distribution of spectacles, qualified ophthalmologists accompanying the team performed various procedures, including the removal of cataracts, further expanding the impact of the project.
Pontllanfraith Rotary has been a steadfast supporter of this university-led initiative for several years. The club has consistently covered the travel expenses for participating students, enabling them to carry out this important work.
The club takes great pride in supporting this project, which exemplifies the remarkable ability of Rotary to address specific, specialized needs within communities, both locally and internationally.
