Optometry students organise Eye Health Summit
The Vice Chancellor of the University of Ilorin, Prof Wahab Olasupo Egbewole, SAN, has urged the students and staff of the University to be eye smart.
Prof. Egbewole gave the admonition penultimate Wednesday (May 15, 2024) while declaring open the Eye Health Summit Week organised by the Nigeria Optometry Students Association (NOSA) at the University Auditorium.
The Vice Chancellor, who was represented by the Deputy Vice Chancellor (Management Services), Prof. Suleiman Folorunsho Ambali, explained that our ability to see shapes and our understanding of the world around us play a crucial role in our daily activities. He noted that it is imperative that we recognise the significance of being “eye smart.”
Acknowledging the current economic realities of the country, Prof. Egbewole encouraged the students that being eye smart encompasses a range of practices and behaviours aimed at preserving and enhancing our vision.
He maintained that “in today’s digital age, our eyes are constantly exposed to screens, whether it’s through computers, smart phones, or tablets. While these devices have undoubtedly transformed the way we learn and communicate, they also pose risks to our eye health”.
The Vice Chancellor, who applauded the NOSA Executive Committee for initiating and organising the summit, said, “We must not overlook the importance of regular eye tests, pointing out that “just as we prioritise our physical health through routine check-ups, we must afford the same attention to our vision, as early detection of eye conditions can greatly improve the effectiveness of treatment and prevent further complications down the line”.
Highlighting the role of optometry students as the flagship of good sight, Prof. Egbewole shared his optimism about their potential to drive innovation and generate solutions to complex societal problems.
In his welcome address, the Head of the Department of Optometry and Vision Science, Prof M. O. Oriowo, underscored the significance of proper nutrition in maintaining healthy eyes.
Prof. Oriowo noted that consuming a diet rich in fruits and vegetables, particularly those high in vitamins A, C, and E, can help protect against age-related vision problems such as macular degeneration and cataracts.
While noting that being eye smart is not just about protecting our vision, the don said that it is about safeguarding our overall well-being and quality of life. He urged members of the University community to commit themselves to adopting practices that promote optimal eye health for themselves and future generations.
Prof. Oriowo commended the NOSA Executive Committee for making the week a successful one.
In his lecture, titled “Good Eye Health and Academic Performance”, the Chief Optometrist, University of Ilorin Teaching Hospital, Dr Chinwendu Oguejiofor, noted that it is no secret that vision plays a pivotal role in the learning process. According to Dr Oguejiofor, “our eyes serve as the gateway to knowledge, starting from reading and deciphering equations to engaging with visual aids and participating in interactive lectures”.
He maintained that the significance of good eye health extends far beyond the confines of the classroom, as it permeates every aspect of the academic journey.
He counseled the students to prioritise their eye health as an integral component of their academic pursuit, which entails adopting proactive measures to protect and preserve their vision. He urged them to form a habit of “scheduling regular eye exams, practising good screen habits, and maintaining a balanced lifestyle”.