The Departments of Optometry and Visual Science, Language and Communication Sciences and Publishing Studies, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), in collaboration with ORBIS International, Ghana, has launched four books (two English books and their respective Twi translations) to commemorate the World Optometry Day on March 23, 2022.
The first set of books, “The Eye Book” and its Twi version, “Ani Nwoma No” are intended to be used by eyecare professionals as an aid and guide in the quest to communicate efficiently with patients and their families, explaining the nature of the disorder, the need for treatment, and the various treatment options. The books will be distributed to eye clinics and eyecare professionals throughout the country.
The second set of books, “The Singing Tree” and its Twi Version, “Dua Dwontoni” are illustrated children's books that focus on the challenges faced by children with poor vision, the need for testing, and the acceptance of wearing eyeglasses. The books will be widely distributed to schools and eye clinics.
The development and production of these books were a collaborative effort between Dr. Ken Youngstein, KNUST, Orbis International, members of the Ghana Health Service, and the ophthalmic community.
The launching was graced by esteemed members of the University community, Regional and Municipal officials, and professional bodies. In attendance were: Prof. Ellis Owusu-Dabo, the Pro-Vice-Chancellor of KNUST; Prof. Leonard Amekudzi, Provost of College of Science; Prof. Charles Ofosu Marfo, Provost of the College of Humanities and Social Sciences; Dr. Kwadwo Owusu Akuffo, Project Leader and Head of the Department of Optometry and Visual Science; Honourable Abraham Kwame Antwi, the Municipal Chief Executive of the Oforikrom Municipality (who also represented the Ashanti Regional Minister); Rev. Emmanuel Addo, Ashanti Regional School Health Coordinator (who also represented the Regional Director of Education); Dr. Esinam Ayisi-Boateng, Ophthalmologist at the Kumasi South Hospital and Treasurer, Ophthalmological Society of Ghana (OSG); Superintendent Dr. Remi Ninkpe, President of the Ghana Optometric Association (GOA); Ms Veronica Oduro Manu, the National Organizer of the Ophthalmic Nurses Group of Ghana; Mr. Paul Nkrumah Takyi, Public Relations Officer (PRO) of the Opticians Association of Ghana (OAG) and Technician, Department of Optometry and Visual Science KNUST; Mr Adolf Ollennu, Program Director, Orbis International Ghana; Mr Edem Dugbazah, Finance and Administrative Officer, Operation Eyesight Universal; Mr Robert Alibo, Country Director, Vision Aid Overseas.
The Provost of the College of Science, Prof. Amekudzi, welcomed the attendants to the launching, after which Prof. Marfo, Provost of the College of Humanities and Social Sciences, who is also part of the core KNUST team to the project, highlighted the purpose of the gathering. In his acceptance speech as chairman of the occasion, the Pro-Vice-Chancellor addressed the audience on why it is essential for health care professionals to keep to their lingua and not to lose it.
Dr. Kenneth Youngstein, Director of the Foundation for Health and Mind Development, and CEO of Biocom Ltd made presentations on “The Singing Tree” and “The Eye Book.” In his discourse, he described the books’ origin, purpose, and intended use. Following that, the Pro-Vice-Chancellor launched the books. The MCE for Oforikrom Municipality, in his keynote address, cautioned eye care professionals on having the right attitude towards work and patients in particular, as this would help patients feel comfortable and aid in the communication process. The Ashanti Regional School of Health Director and eye care professional associations addressed the audience on the essence of the launched books and how vital they are in eye care delivery.
Mr. Paul Takyi thanked all in attendance after the Pro-Vice-Chancellor’s closing remarks. Finally, Dr. Kwadwo Owusu Akuffo said a word prayer to end the program.
CLICK HERE TO VIEW PHOTO GALLERY
