The School of Optometry and Vision Science (SOVS) at the University of Cape Coast (UCC) has received a further US$25,000 grant from Optometry Giving Sight (OGS) to continue and strengthen the implementation of the Optometric Service and Community Outreach for Practical Experience (OPTO-SCOPE) project.

The new award, covering the 2026 project year, follows the successful implementation of the initial US$25,000 grant awarded to the School in 2025. The first phase enabled the School to establish a sustainable community-based eye-care outreach model in two communities with Community-based Health Planning and Services (CHPS) compounds in the Central Region.

Through the project, the two beneficiary communities received monthly eye-care outreach services delivered by final-year Doctor of Optometry students under the direct supervision of faculty members. The 2025 grant also supported the procurement of essential basic ophthalmic equipment required to provide these services within the community setting.

OPTO-SCOPE represents an innovative approach to community eye care by integrating optometric services into existing CHPS structures rather than relying solely on occasional outreach activities. The model provides underserved communities with more regular access to basic eye-care services while creating opportunities for students to develop practical clinical and community-based competencies in real-world settings.

The second-year funding will enable the School to consolidate and expand the gains made during the first year of implementation, strengthening the delivery of sustainable community-integrated eye-care services and further enhancing the practical learning experience of optometry students.

The project is led by two faculty members of the School, Prof. Michael Ntodie, and Dr Enyam KA Morny who have led the School's successful applications for both the 2025 and 2026 OGS grants. The project also continues to involve faculty members who supervise students during the delivery of community-based eye-care services.

The continued support from Optometry Giving Sight reflects the value of the OPTO-SCOPE model in linking community eye health, clinical education, and sustainable service delivery. It also strengthens the School's commitment to producing optometrists who are equipped not only with clinical competencies but also with practical experience in responding to the eye-care needs of underserved populations.

The School of Optometry and Vision Science expresses its appreciation to Optometry Giving Sight for its continued partnership and support towards improving access to eye care and strengthening optometric education at the University of Cape Coast.