The talk came about as a result of Oratory L6th Former Oyinade Bakare’s voluntary work with the charity in Nigeria during the Christmas holidays, which had inspired Oratory students and staff to get involved too.

Oyinade Bakare, L6th Former, says, “During my week volunteering with the Precious Sight Foundation, I had the privilege of contributing to their goal of restoring vision and hope to those in need. Assisting in various roles, from handing out prescriptions to aiding in vision screenings, I witnessed firsthand the profound impact of their work on individuals' lives. Collaborating with dedicated professionals and fellow volunteers, I got priceless insights into the challenges and rewards of humanitarian efforts in healthcare. This experience not only deepened my appreciation for the power of sight but also rejuvenated my commitment to service and kindness.”

During assembly, students learnt about Adewumi’s inspiring journey to set-up The Precious Sight Foundation following surgery to restore her own sight. The charity, which has bases in Gambia, Nigeria, Rwanda, Sierra Leone and South Africa, aims to help African communities who cannot afford the cost of eye care, eye treatments or life-changing eye surgery.

As a result of the talk, The Oratory Charity Committee, run by a group of student and staff volunteers, is supporting PSF with a glasses bank and is asking members of the school and local community to donate old/no longer needed glasses or frames in good condition. These will then be reused with replacement prescription lenses in Africa. There will also be a student-led donut sale to raise funds for eye drops, eye tests and glasses.

Glasses donations can be dropped in to The Oratory’s Reception desk by Friday 7 June. If you would like to find out more about Precious Sight Foundation, or to make a donation, please visit: https://precioussightfoundation.org/.