Meet our Glasses for Classes Ophthalmologist, Dr Irene Nansambuga.
Dr Nansambuga recently joined our Glasses for Classes team, helping oversee our eye care clinics. Dr Nansambuga is a graduate of Mbarara University of Science and Technology (MUST) and Makerere University. Dr Irene has a passion for helping restore peoples sight whether through diagnosing eye diseases, performing surgery or helping a child see clearly for the first time with glasses.
Why I Chose Ophthalmology
My inspiration to become a doctor was my mother, a dedicated nurse. Seeing her compassion and commitment to helping others sparked my desire to pursue a career in medicine and become a doctor where I could make a direct impact on patients’ lives through diagnosis, treatment and specialised care.
I found myself drawn to ophthalmology. Vision has always been a significant part of my life, particularly because I come from a family of myopes. Having experienced the challenges of relying on glasses firsthand, I became curious about finding better, more durable solutions.
Ophthalmology offered exactly that — a field where precision and technology converge to restore sight and improve lives. What fascinated me most was that even the smallest interventions—such as prescribing glasses or performing surgery—could have an immense impact on a person’s overall well-being. The ability to help someone see the world clearly, especially children, was a powerful motivator. Early detection and treatment could lay the foundation for a lifetime of better opportunities.
My Journey into Eye Care
I completed my undergraduate studies at Mbarara University of Science and Technology (MUST), where I gained a strong foundation in clinical practice. Later, I pursued a Master’s degree in ophthalmology specialising in eye care at at Makerere University. It was here that I deepened my passion for helping people restore their sight, and I knew I had found my calling.
What Makes Ophthalmology So Rewarding
Ophthalmology is incredibly rewarding. The ability to give someone the gift of sight, whether diagnosing and treating eye diseases, performing surgery, or simply helping a child see clearly for the first time with glasses, is deeply fulfilling. Every day brings new opportunities to make a difference.
Understanding Eye Health in Children
Uncorrected refractive errors, vitamin A deficiency, infections, or underlying systemic conditions like diabetes are the main causes of poor eye sight. It can also be familial. Environmental factors, such as excessive near-work without breaks, can also contribute to worsening vision in children. As an ophthalmologist the most common conditions I see include refractive errors (such as myopia, hyperopia, and astigmatism), allergic conjunctivitis, amblyopia (lazy eye), and strabismus (crossed eyes). We also see cases of congenital cataracts and ocular cancers especially retinoblastoma, though less frequently.
The Power of Early Detection
If preventative measures—such as wearing glasses—are not taken, eyesight can deteriorate rapidly. For children, uncorrected vision problems can affect learning, cause headaches, and lead to eye strain. Poor vision affects a child’s education, confidence, and social interactions. Over time, untreated conditions can worsen and result in permanent vision loss.
Most childhood eye conditions can be effectively managed if detected early. Regular eye tests can help identify problems before they become severe. Conditions such as refractive errors can be easily treated with glasses, and issues like amblyopia can be managed through patching therapy. Early surgical interventions for congenital problems can prevent long-term complications. The key to better eye health outcomes is early detection and intervention.
When Surgery is Needed
On average, I see 15 to 20 children each day in clinic, and about 1 to 3 of those cases typically require surgical intervention for conditions like congenital cataracts, retinoblastoma, or severe strabismus. While most children have treatable refractive errors early diagnosis is crucial in these case to prevent long-term complications.
Seeing the Difference: The Impact of a Pair of Glasses
I love seeing the immediate and life-changing impact of providing children with the right pair of glasses. Watching a child light up when they can finally see the board clearly or read a book comfortably is incredibly rewarding. Glasses for Classes is helping bridge the gap in access to vision care, ensuring that no child is left behind due to poor eyesight.
The Future of Eye Care in Uganda
Looking ahead, I hope to see improved access to eye care, especially for children and underserved communities. Investing in early detection programs, affordable glasses, and advanced treatments, can significantly reduce preventable blindness. Strengthening ophthalmology training and equipping hospitals with modern diagnostic tools will also enhance patient outcomes.
A Life Outside the Clinic
In my spare time I enjoy reading, embarking on adventure travels, and going on nature walks. I also treasure moments spent with family and friends, as they provide balance and joy outside of my demanding career.
How You Can Help: Schools in the UK Supporting Children in Uganda
In 2025 we’re looking to partner with schools in the UK with schools in Uganda, where children need a pair of glasses. We’re asking pupils to decorate a pair of paper glasses as creatively as they can, for a £2 donation to help fund our eye tests and glasses.
You can find everything you need to support a Glasses for Classes lesson including a great explanation on what a pair of glasses can mean to children in Uganda, letter to parents, glasses templates for decorating and a certificate of participation on our schools resources page. If your school would like to partner with us and making a difference for children who need it the most, please get in touch at hello@humanitydirect.org.