Seneca is proud to partner with Essilor Canada on a new program set to launch in fall 2021 called, “See more, be more.”
Seeing well is crucial to being able to learn, work and interact with the world around us. One-third of the global population lives with uncorrected poor vision and its consequences. Together with Essilor, Seneca would like to change that, one person at a time.
“Essilor’s mission is to eradicate poor vision, with a focus on young people who do not have access to adequate insurance coverage for regular examinations or updated eyewear,” explains Simon Robert, Essilor’s Senior Director, Group Mission and Public Affairs. “We have been supporting Seneca students for well over a decade now – and this is just one more way we are able to give back.”
The goal is to offer students across all campuses comprehensive eye exams by an optometrist or a vision screening exam by a specialist. This will provide work-integrated learning opportunities for Seneca Opticianry students, as they will partner with the optometrist or a specialist to provide support. These opportunities are critical to the students’ success, as it allows them to see first-hand what it will be like when they graduate and enter the world of work.
As well as helping all students get the eye care they need, Essilor is removing economic barriers and providing five students with a financial aid award annually to help them offset tuition and living costs.
“Our students benefit so much from these partnerships,” says Opticianry Program Co-ordinator and Professor, Tatiana Mighiu. “They get the experience in the field that they need, in addition to taking care of their own health and helping their Seneca colleagues.”