Johannesburg – A month-long temporary eye care facility at the Gautrain Marlboro Station has transformed the vision and lives of more than a thousand residents from Marlboro, Alexandra Township, and surrounding communities.
The initiative, which closed its doors on Sunday, 26 October 2025, provided free comprehensive eye tests, prescription eyewear, and sunglasses to 1 289 residents.
Launched on 4 October 2025, the project operated every Saturday and Sunday throughout October to mark World Sight Month and Transport Month.
A partnership between Gautrain, the African Eye Institute, and the University of Johannesburg, the initiative brought together experts, optometry students, and community partners to make quality eye care accessible to those who need it most.
“This initiative exemplifies the African Eye Institute’s unwavering commitment to reaching those most in need,” said Prof Khathutshelo Percy Mashige, Chairperson of the African Eye Institute.
“Countless elderly individuals endure silent suffering due to vision loss, simply because they lack access to affordable eye tests and spectacles.
“By delivering essential eye care and health screenings directly to communities, particularly during World Sight Month and Transport Month, we are restoring not only sight, but also dignity, confidence, and independence.
“This is the true impact of collaboration: transforming lives through accessible, preventive, and compassionate eye healthcare.”
Optometry students from the University of Johannesburg were at the heart of the initiative, applying their classroom knowledge and gaining valuable practical experience while serving local residents.
Sipepiso Mhlope, Clinical Manager at the University of Johannesburg, said, “This partnership is a powerful testament to how academic efforts, through community service, can truly transform lives.
“By tackling avoidable vision issues, this initiative not only improves health… but also brings hope and new opportunities to hundreds of people.”
In addition to providing eye care, the facility also offered free HIV testing and blood pressure screenings in partnership with the Department of Health.
Gautrain Management Agency Chief Executive Officer, Tshepo Kgobe, commended the community for embracing the initiative and turning out in large numbers.
“This initiative forms part of the Gautrain Social Investment Programme (SIP) and aligns with its Community Care focus area,” Kgobe said.
“As Transport Month and World Sight Month draw to a close, we are proud that this collaboration has changed so many lives.
“By providing essential eye care services, we are supporting community members to participate fully in social, educational, and economic activities.”
The partners are exploring ways to expand the initiative to other Gautrain stations and communities, continuing their commitment to accessible, quality healthcare and community upliftment.
