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Impala’s eye health programme boosts student learning in Rustenburg

Impala Platinum Limited (Impala) is continuing its commitment to youth development with the renewal of the Ponelopele eye health programme for a second consecutive year.

The initiative provides free vision screenings and prescription glasses to Grade 5 and 6 learners in local primary schools, helping to remove barriers to learning. By improving students’ vision, the programme is enhancing their ability to fully participate in school, boosting both academic performance and self-confidence.

The Ponelopele programme, part of Impala’s broader efforts in community upliftment, has already made a significant impact. So far, over 900 students from six primary schools in Rustenburg’s mining communities have benefitted from eye health screenings. Schools included in the programme are Chaneng, Bonwakgogo, Kana, Tlhotlheletsang, Ramotse, and Luka. The latest round of assessments identified 76 students in need of prescription glasses, which will help them engage more effectively with their studies and daily activities.

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Moses Motlhageng, Chief Executive at Impala’s Western Limb operations, said, “Our Ponelopele initiative is identifying children with eye health issues and helping them see better, which gives them greater confidence to thrive. Good vision lays the foundation for a child’s development, and something as simple as a pair of spectacles can restore a sense of belonging, boost self-esteem and create a renewed enthusiasm for learning. This small intervention has a big impact — it creates opportunities for improved academic performance and, ultimately, higher achievement and future economic opportunities for these learners.”

Omatla Monosi, a Grade 5 learner from Tlhotlheletsang Primary School in Kanana, said, “I used to struggle to see the board and felt left behind in class. I’m excited to get my new glasses and to be able to keep up with my schoolwork. Thank you, Impala.”

The Ponelopele initiative is one of several socioeconomic development programmes Impala supports. The company is committed to supporting programmes that remove barriers to education, promote health and wellbeing, and create long-term opportunities for the residents in its host communities.