Mangaluru: The Department of Ophthalmology, Father Muller Medical College, in association with the B.Sc. Optometry programme of Father Muller College of Allied Health Sciences, observed the inauguration of Low Vision Awareness Month at the MRD Entrance of Father Muller Medical College Hospital (FMMCH) with great enthusiasm and participation.
The event brought together members of the management, faculty, course coordinators, staff, students of Father Muller Charitable Institutions (FMCI), as well as patients and their attenders. The programme commenced with a prayer song, setting a tone of reverence and reflection.
Creating awareness on low vision care
Dr Sarita Lobo, Head of the Department of Ophthalmology, welcomed the gathering and emphasised the importance of early identification and rehabilitation for individuals with low vision.
Mr Calistus Dsa, Principal of Roman and Catherine Lobo School for the Blind, was the Chief Guest on the occasion. In his address, he created awareness about low vision and highlighted the facilities and support systems available at the Roman and Catherine Lobo School for the Blind, describing it as a beacon of hope for visually impaired children in Dakshina Kannada district.
Presiding over the function, Rev. Fr Faustine Lucas Lobo, Director of FMCI, spoke about the ability of visually impaired individuals to lead independent and meaningful lives with the help of appropriate low vision aids. He underscored that it is the duty of every individual in society to assist, guide and support persons with visual impairment in integrating confidently into the community.
Other dignitaries present included Rev. Dr Michael L. Santhumayor, Administrator; Dr Antony Sylvan D’Souza, Dean; Rev. Fr George Jeevan Sequeira, Administrator, FMMCH; Rev. Fr William D’Souza, Assistant Administrator; Dr Venkatesha B. M., Vice Dean; along with the Medical Superintendent, AMS, DMS, Heads of Departments, Course Coordinators and faculty members.
Focus on technology and accessibility
Dr Madhurima A. Nayak, Organising Secretary, elaborated on various low vision aid applications available on smartphones and their practical use in day-to-day life. She also announced the prizes for a reel-making competition conducted in connection with Low Vision Awareness Month.
Flyers containing information about low vision services and the department’s facilities were released during the programme. The event was compered by Ms Kavyashree Kotian, Lecturer in Optometry.
Following the inaugural ceremony, a live demonstration of low vision aids and assistive mobile applications was conducted at the OPD block, enabling participants to understand the practical benefits of these tools. Students were also taken on a visit to the Roman and Catherine Lobo School for the Blind to gain deeper insights into the needs and capabilities of visually impaired individuals.
Advanced facilities for regional care
The Department of Ophthalmology at Father Muller Medical College is the only centre in the region with a dedicated Low Vision Aid Clinic that evaluates and dispenses customised low vision aids. It is also the only centre in the area offering 24-hour trauma and retina care services for the management of complex low vision and retinal conditions.
On the occasion, the official Instagram page of the Department of Ophthalmology, fmmc_opthalmology, was formally launched to enhance public engagement and awareness about eye health services.
The observance of Low Vision Awareness Month reaffirmed Father Muller’s commitment to inclusive healthcare, advanced ophthalmic services and community-oriented outreach, ensuring that individuals with visual impairment receive both medical care and rehabilitative support.
