Glencore and SANCB Bring Clear Vision to Learners in eMalahleni Through Spectacle Handover

March 2026, eMalahleni, Mpumalanga – Glencore Coal, in partnership with the South African National Council for the Blind (SANCB) have handed over sets of prescription spectacles to learners who were found to have visual impairments, as a result of their extensive eye screening programme that was carried out in eMalahleni schools in October and November.

The initiative forms part of Glencore’s ongoing commitment to improving access to quality healthcare in its host communities, ensuring that learners are equipped with the tools they need to achieve their academic success.

To date, SANCB has screened nearly 7000 learners across twelve primary and high schools through the programme, including Amandla Primary School, Mabande High School and Sukumani Primary School.  More than 500 free spectacles were issued to learners, easing financial pressure on families and enabling learners to participate more confidently in the classroom.

“Children learn mostly by sight. When vision is compromised, so does performance, confidence and wellbeing.” said Nelson Mafulo, Fundraising and Marketing Manager at South African National Council for the Blind (SANCB). “This partnership with Glencore allows us to identify challenges early, provide corrective support and prevent avoidable complications later in life.”

Thembisile Chansa, mother of Mbongeni Mgidi from Thuthukani Primary School, expressed her gratitude: “As a parent, it is difficult to see your child struggle in school and not always know the cause. I am very grateful for this support because now my child can see clearly and focus better in class. This initiative has helped ease the financial burden on our family and has given my child a better chance to succeed.”

Atlegang Mlangeni learner from Thuthukani Primary School recounted her experience during the eye screening: “For a long time I struggled to see the board and stay on track with my classmates, which made attending school challenging. Getting the help, I needed has changed everything, my glasses will allow me to see sharply and concentrate on my studies. It simplifies the learning process and has boosted my confidence to perform at my best and achieve my maximum potential.”

The programme has also had a targeted impact on matriculants, with 324 Grade 12 learners screened across five high schools. Of these, 149 received treatment and 45 were provided with free spectacles, ensuring they entered their final examinations with improved vision and confidence.

Educators across participating schools have noted the difference the intervention is making. “If a child cannot see properly, it affects every part of their development. This programme gives learners the chance to learn with confidence and improve their lives. “said Amandla Primary School principal, Ms Phiri.

Beyond improved eyesight, the eye-screening programme aims to build learner confidence, support academic achievement and remove barriers to healthcare access. By intervening at critical stages of learners’ educational journeys, the initiative continues to deliver meaningful, long-term impact for both learners and their communities. This program has demonstrated the meaningful impact for each learner’s academic outcome at each pivotal stage and milestone of their schooling career.

By restoring sight and improving access to essential health services, Glencore continues to energise communities today, while advancing them for brighter, more equitable tomorrows.