The University of the West Indies (The UWI) St. Augustine Campus has launched UWI Optical at the Couva Hospital and Multi-Training Facility, providing greater access to professional eye care for communities in central and southern Trinidad.
Campus Principal, Professor Rose-Marie Belle Antoine, highlighted that the facility combines clinical service with student training, allowing optometry students to apply their skills in a real-world setting while serving the public.
The store, which began a pilot phase in July 2025, has already provided over 100 pairs of spectacles, including to children in need.
Dr. Kingsley Ekemiri, Head of the Optometry Unit, noted the initiative marks a milestone in advancing academic, clinical, and community service commitments.
Future plans include an in-house dispensing laboratory, a dedicated course for dispensing opticians, and a contact lens programme, further strengthening hands-on training opportunities.
The store also offers quality eye-wear through partnerships with ARG, Eye See You, and Lens Tech Labs, reinforcing UWI’s commitment to accessible, high-quality eye care.
