The Diploma in Optometry Refraction (DOR) students of the Index Department of Physiotherapy and Paramedical Sciences (IDOPT), Malwanchal University, actively participated in the National Eye Donation Fortnight Awareness Programme organised by the Index Department of Ophthalmology on 8th September 2026 at Index Medical College Hospital & Research Centre, Indore. Conducted under the theme “Donate Eyes, Give the Gift of Sight,” the programme aimed to create greater awareness about eye donation, eye health, and the importance of preventing avoidable blindness. The initiative provided students with an opportunity to apply their academic knowledge in a meaningful community-awareness setting while encouraging people to understand the value of eye donation.

As part of the awareness programme, DOR students showcased their creativity and knowledge through Poster and Rangoli Competitions, presenting important aspects of eye care and eye donation. Their presentations highlighted the structure and functions of the human eye, the importance and process of eye donation, eligibility criteria, common myths and facts, and measures for the prevention of blindness. Beyond the competitions, the students actively interacted with patients, attendants, and hospital staff in the OPD waiting area. Through these interactions, they explained the significance of eye donation, addressed common misconceptions, and encouraged people to consider pledging their eyes for donation. The students’ enthusiastic participation reflected their growing professional skills and their role as future eye-care professionals and health-awareness ambassadors.

The programme further featured an awareness rally within the hospital campus, followed by an Eye Donation Pledge Ceremony, creating a strong collective message in support of the noble cause. DOR students, faculty members, doctors, and community members participated enthusiastically in the activities, with more than 80 people filling eye donation pledge forms. The participation of IDOPT students made the programme impactful by bringing together professional learning, creativity, public interaction, and social responsibility. Through their efforts, the students helped spread the message that eye donation can provide someone with the priceless gift of sight and contribute towards a more aware and compassionate society. The initiative also reinforced IDOPT’s commitment to experiential learning and community-oriented healthcare education, inspiring students to actively contribute to initiatives that promote eye health and the prevention of blindness.