Aligarh: The Department of Ophthalmology at Aligarh Muslim University commemorated the 38th National Eye Donation Fortnight, with great fervor and commitment, which is being observed from August 25th to September 8. The fortnight-long events are aimed at raising awareness about the critical importance of eye donation and the eradication of corneal blindness.

During the observance, Professor AK Amitava, Chairman of the Department of Ophthalmology, shed light on the staggering burden of corneal blindness, which affects approximately one million individuals. The dire need for corneal donations was emphasized, highlighting the potential to transform lives through this selfless act.

Dr. Zia Siddiqui, Incharge of the Eye Bank, provided insights into the contributions and activities of the AMU Institute Eye Bank in combating corneal blindness. These initiatives have played a pivotal role in making strides towards eradicating this preventable form of blindness.

In an informative session, Dr. M Saquib, Assistant Incharge of the Eye Bank, addressed the causes of low corneal donations. He stressed that corneas can be donated up to six hours after death without causing any facial dysmorphia in the deceased.

He further emphasized that individuals of all age groups can contribute to this noble cause by donating their corneas.

Notably, the AMU Institute Eye Bank stands as the sole eye bank in Aligarh, offering 24x7 availability to collect corneas and thus ensuring no opportunity is missed.

A series of impactful events have been organized to raise awareness during this special fortnight.

A poster competition was held in collaboration with the Medical College Society of JNMCH, which received a valuable addition through the involvement of Hansika Saxena, Joint Secretary.

A seminar was conducted at the Nursing College, AMU featuring an enlightening skit performed by undergraduate students of JNMCH, and an awareness talk on the role of the nursing fraternity by Prof AK Amitava and Dr Zia Siddiqui. A patient who received cornea shared his life-changing experience.

Farha Azmi, Principal of Nursing College graced the occasion.

Meanwhile, a school awareness program is scheduled to take place in Atrauli on September 4th. This initiative is expected to engage young minds and instill the significance of eye donation from an early age.