Department of Ophthalmology AMU Organises National Eye Donation Fortnight

National Eye Donation Fortnight: The Department of Ophthalmology at Aligarh Muslim University celebrated with great fervour and dedication the 38th National Eye Donation Fortnight, which runs from August 25th to September 8th, 2023. The purpose of the two-week-long events is to raise awareness of the critical significance of eye donation and the eradication of corneal blindness.

Professor A. K. Amitava, chairman of the Department of Ophthalmology, cast light on the staggering burden of corneal blindness, which affects approximately one million people. The critical need for corneal donations was emphasised, along with the transformative power of this altruistic act.

The director of the Eye Bank, Dr. Ziddiqui, discussed the contributions and activities of the AMU Institute Eye Bank in the fight against corneal blindness. These initiatives have played a crucial role in advancing the elimination of this preventable form of blindness.

Dr. M. Saquib, the assistant in command of the Eye Bank, addressed the causes of low corneal donations in an informative session. He emphasised that corneas can be donated up to six hours after a person’s demise without causing facial dysmorphia.

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AMU Organises National Eye Donation Fortnight

Additionally, he emphasised that people of all ages can contribute to this noble cause by donating their corneas.

Notably, the AMU Institute Eye Bank is the only eye bank in Aligarh, collecting corneas 24 hours a day, seven days a week, ensuring that no opportunity is wasted.

During this special fortnight, a succession of impactful events have been organised to raise awareness.

In collaboration with the Medical College Society of JNMCH, Ms. Hansika Saxena, Joint Secretary, contributed significantly to the success of the poster competition.

Prof. A. K. Amitava and Dr. Ziddiqui spoke on the role of the nursing fraternity during a seminar held at the Nursing College, AMU, which also featured a skit performed by undergraduate students from JNMCH. A patient who received corneal transplantation described his life-altering experience.

Principal of the Nursing College, Ms. Farha Azmi, graced the occasion.

On September 4th, a school awareness programme is scheduled to take place in Atrauli. This initiative is anticipated to stimulate young minds and impart the importance of eye donation at a young age.