HM KNUST Low Vision Project

The story

Origin and Purpose: The initiative began in 2019 through a collaboration between international partners and KNUST (Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology) to improve low vision care and training in the Ashanti Region of Ghana. Infrastructure & Care Access: The project established a network of low vision care centers and equipped regional partner hospitals (such as KNUST University Hospital and Teppa Municipal Hospital) with essential diagnostic tools, test charts, and assistive equipment. This reduced the heavy burden on Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital (KATH) and made specialized care locally accessible. Shift to Rehabilitation: Low vision management shifted from basic refractive services and reassurance to comprehensive functional vision assessment, counseling, mobility training, and long-term visual rehabilitation. Provision of Assistive Devices: Patients are provided with optical and non-optical devices—including hand magnifiers, telescopes, filters, CCTVs, and glassboard cameras—enabling them to carry out daily tasks, read, write, navigate independently, and pursue education. Professional Capacity Building & Research: Eyecare professionals, clinicians, and student optometrists receive specialized training in low vision care and device prescription. Additionally, data collected through the project is being utilized for impactful research to inform future low vision practices in Ghana. Impact on Quality of Life: Patients express restored confidence, independence, and a renewed sense of purpose, no longer relying on others for basic daily activities or fearing complete blindness.