KAMPALA, UGANDA — Eye care firm Lapaire hosted an open day for secondary school students in Ntinda, aiming to inspire a new generation of professionals to address Uganda’s critical shortage of eye health specialists.
Uganda’s eye care sector is severely understaffed, with only an estimated 500 specialists serving a population of nearly 46 million, leaving millions without access to necessary care.
“We organized Lapaire Open Day to expose students to the discipline of optometry and interest them in it as a career,” said John Hilary Balyejusa, a public relations and communications executive for Lapaire. He emphasized that the company’s goal is genuine community benefit, not just sales.
The event highlighted diverse career opportunities within the industry, from clinical practice to business roles. “Our hope is that years from now, these students will remember this day and pursue careers as eye specialists, salespeople, or managers,” said Mark Muoki, Lapaire’s human resources manager.
Tennisha Birungi, a student from Rise and Shine High School, said the event expanded her career outlook. “This program is so helpful because it challenges us as youth to think beyond the usual careers like doctors or pilots, and to also consider eye care,” she said.
Jackline Baboneraawo, a Lapaire eye specialist, called on the government to invest more in training institutions, noting that the country has very few schools for eye care professionals. She also encouraged the public to get regular eye check-ups and to practice the 20-20-20 rule to prevent eye strain.
In addition to the open day, Lapaire operates outreach programs for schools, elderly people, and corporate staff. The company has also partnered with a national road safety campaign to reduce accidents linked to poor vision.
