Lecture programme held on national blindness control

ALIGARH  : The College of Nursing, Aligarh Muslim University organized a lecture programme on “National Blindness Control” in collaboration with the Institute of Ophthalmology as a part of the G-20 celebrations.

In his lecture, Dr. Mohd. Saqib, Assistant Incharge, Eye Bank, Institute of Ophthalmology discussed the causes of low corneal donations, adding that cornea can be donated up to six hours after death without causing any facial dysmorphia in the deceased. He emphasized that individuals of all age groups can contribute to this noble cause by donating their cornea.

He said that the Eye Bank at AMU is the only eye bank in Aligarh, offering a 24×7 availability of the facility and ensuring that no opportunity is missed.

Prof. A.K. Amitava, Director, Institute of Ophthalmology explained the future development plans for the Eye Bank and shed light on the staggering burden of corneal blindness, which affects approximately one million individuals.

Dr. Zia Siddiqui, Incharge, Eye Bank, highlighted the contributions and activities of the Eye Bank and said that it has played a pivotal role in making strides towards eradicating this preventable form of blindness.

Dr. Abdul Waris urged the nursing students to participate in such types of awareness programmes and campaigns. He said Nurses are the backbone of a hospital setup and as a member of health team they contribute to spread the knowledge related to new modalities and techniques.

Prof. Farha Azmi, Principal, College of Nursing, emphasized the need for awareness programme for urging people to donate their cornea. She said nursing students can play a vital role in such campaigns by informing admitted patient and their attendants regarding eye donations.

She urged the people to join hand and take the pledge to donate eye for the welfare of society.

Ms. Shivani Masih, Ms. J. N. Sonja, Ms. Pamela Joseph, Ms. Dipti Minj and Ms. Mahvish Masih played a key role in organizing the programme.