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Science Friday, Episode 3: Vision Revolution : The Science behind better eye care
Dr. Kwadwo Owusu Akuffo, Senior Lecturer at the Department of Optometry and Visual Science, has raised concern over the rising cases of Computer Vision Syndrome (CVS) among young people and professionals, warning that prolonged screen use is quietly straining the eyes of many Ghanaians. Speaking at the third edition of Science Friday, an academic engagement platform organised by KNUST Libraries to promote scientific discussion, research sharing, and interdisciplinary collaboration, he addressed the theme “Vision Revolution: The Science Behind Better Eye Care.” “Computer Vision Syndrome is a group of eye and vision problems resulting from prolonged screen use. When we stare at screens for long periods, our blink rate reduces, leading to dry eyes. At the same time, continuous near focus causes fatigue, while glare and poor posture increase visual stress,” he explained. He noted that common symptoms include eye strain, dryness, irritation, blurred vision, headaches, and even neck and shoulder pain, conditions many people often ignore until they worsen. To curb the condition, Dr. Owusu Akuffo emphasized simple but effective preventive measures, particularly the 20-20-20 rule, which involves looking away from the screen every 20 minutes at something 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds. “Keep your screen at a distance of about 50 to 70 centimetres and position it slightly below eye level. Blink more often, ensure proper lighting, and use the right prescription glasses where necessary,” he advised. Beyond digital eye strain, he highlighted the broader challenge of preventable vision loss, revealing that nearly 90% of vision problems can be avoided with early detection and proper care. Dr. Owusu Akuffo also spotlighted the role of the KNUST Low Vision Centre, which provides specialized assessments and assistive devices such as magnifiers and electronic aids for individuals with irreversible vision loss, while training eye care professionals across the country. He urged the public to adopt healthy eye care habits, including regular eye examinations, wearing UV-protective sunglasses, and maintaining a balanced diet rich in vitamins A, C, and E. He called on Ghanaians to prioritize routine eye checks and proactive care to prevent avoidable vision loss. “If you close your eyes for a minute, you will begin to imagine the life many people live in darkness and blindness,’’ he said.
Book Aid International Donates Books to Support KNUST Library Expansion
The Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi (KNUST) Library has received a new consignment of books from Book Aid International to enrich its collections, facilitated by former University Librarian, Dr. Helena Asamoah-Hassan. Dr. Helena Asamoah-Hassan.The initiative was described as a continuation of her longstanding commitment to literacy development and library outreach. Dr Asamoah-Hassan explained that the donation forms part of an ongoing partnership with Book Aid International, aimed at providing quality books to children’s libraries, secondary schools and selected tertiary institutions across the country. “When I learned that the children’s libraries at KNUST were reopening, I felt it was important to include them in our next distribution. I’m praying that as new consignments arrive, the KNUST Library will always be kept in mind,” she said. Dr Asamoah-Hassan added that similar donations have benefited children’s hospitals and community libraries, reinforcing her belief that access to reading materials is central to education and social development. After serving KNUST for 14 years, she said returning to contribute again felt deeply meaningful. “I’m happy to be back and to support the office I once sat in,” she said. University Librarian, Dr. Richard Bruce Lamptey.The University Librarian, Dr. Richard Bruce Lamptey, expressed appreciation for Dr Asamoah-Hassan’s leadership. “We are very happy that she is here to support us and register the new books,” he said.
Science Friday Episode 2 : Deadlines Are Temporary, Your Health Is Not, KNUST Lecturer Calls for Balance
Published: 10th Apr 2026 Dr. (Mrs.) Mary Amoako, Senior Lecturer at the Department of Biochemistry and Biotechnology at Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), has urged students and staff to prioritise their health over academic and work pressures, warning that unmanaged stress can have serious physiological and psychological consequences. Speaking at the second edition of the ScienceFriday Series organised by the KNUST Library System, Dr. Amoako emphasised that while deadlines are inevitable in academic environments, health must remain a top priority. “Deadlines are temporary, your health is not,” she stressed. Dr. Amoako explained that stress triggers the release of cortisol, a hormone that, when persistently elevated, can negatively affect the body. According to her, high cortisol levels influence eating behaviours by disrupting hunger-regulating hormones such as ghrelin and leptin. She noted that individuals respond differently to stress. “There are some individuals who will undereat because they are stressed, others will overeat and crave fatty and sugary foods, while some develop irregular eating patterns,” she explained. She highlighted findings from several cross-sectional studies that reveal troubling trends among university students. One study involving 180 students across various colleges found that over 60 percent had limited access to food, with about two-thirds lacking sufficient meals, a situation she said has direct implications for mental health. Another study cited from her studies indicated that students experiencing high levels of stress recorded higher blood pressure compared to their less-stressed counterparts. A third study comparing teaching and non-teaching staff also revealed significant stress-related health patterns. Dr. Amoako outlined common behavioural signs of stress, including fatigue, headaches, anxiety, poor concentration, appetite changes, and feelings of being overwhelmed. To address these challenges, she encouraged practical lifestyle adjustments. “Fix your sleep and wake-up times, plan your day and your meals, engage in regular physical activity, and most importantly, address the root cause of your stress,” she advised She also urged students and staff to seek early support, pointing to the availability of wellness and counselling services on campus. On nutrition, Dr. Amoako advised individuals to prioritise whole foods, including whole grains, fruits, vegetables, healthy proteins, and oils, while staying well hydrated, especially during stressful periods. “Stress has the potency of affecting behaviour, especially eating habits, and this varies from person to person,” she added. University Librarian, Dr. Richard Bruce Lamptey The University Librarian, Dr. Richard Bruce Lamptey, noted that the Science Friday Series is designed to promote the wellbeing of both staff and students. “Our aim is not only to meet targets but also to prevent situations where we sacrifice our health in the process,” he said. He described the theme of the session as timely and relevant in a fast-paced academic environment where pressure often leads to neglect of personal wellbeing. “Success is not measured only by deadlines met, papers submitted, or projects completed, but also by the wellbeing we preserve along the way,” he said. He called on the university community to consciously balance productivity with wellness to ensure sustainable success.
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April 2026Science Friday: Episode 3
2:00 PMPrempeh Ii Library
13
March 2026Science Friday
1:00 PMPREMPEH II LIBRARY
2
August 2023Elsevier Workshop
10:00 AMOnline