AN East London-based non-governmental organisation, the Small Projects Foundation (SPF), has embarked on a large-scale ear and eye screening initiative involving 14 primary schools in Buffalo City, screening a total of 459 learners in an effort to identify potential hearing impairments.
Through its dual-sensory screening project in early childhood development, the SPF launched its ear and eye screening initiative. Throughout the month of March, the foundation’s dedicated team visited several primary schools and children’s homes in Buffalo City to detect hearing and vision failures affecting children at an early age.
In March, a total of 459 learners in early childhood development phase were screened and 435 passed the screening test. However, 21 learners were identified as requiring further assessment.
Some learners who needed further intervention were referred to the Cecilia Makiwane Hospital in Mdantsane for specialised evaluation.
SPF audiologist Kwanele Mthembu and NGO’s Social Employment Fund participant, Andisiwe Nkosiyane, recently conducted screenings at the East London-based Carel Du Toit care centre.
Mthembu said that during the screening sessions, they examined a five-year-old child with cochlear implants who was experiencing itchy ears and difficulty following conversations.
“We examined the child and discovered that ear wax was blocking both ear canals, which we successfully removed using a light curette,” said Mthembu.
SPF’s Umbono project in partnership with Kretzemann Optometrist, recently conducted dual-sensory testing at Hudson Park Primary School. A total of 135 Grade R learners were screened to ensure their vision and hearing – key components in their educational journey.
Established in 1988, the SPF has been a major contributor to early childhood development in the province, particularly in Buffalo City.
The foundation has several empowerment projects addressing social issues such as gender-based violence, domestic violence, HIV/Aids, mentorship and leadership programme, and sanitary towel drives among others.
