Doctoral Milestone for Visionary Optometry Expert

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Dr Enowntai Nkongho Ayukotang, a trailblazing optometrist, researcher, and healthcare leader, has carved a legacy of excellence and service in the field of optometry. 

Ayukotang’s journey has been one of resilience, dedication, and an unwavering commitment to improving eye health in Africa and beyond. 

Now he has graduated with a PhD degree in Optometry from UKZN. 

Born and raised in Cameroon, Ayukotang’s passion for eye care was ignited by a respected community leader - his landlord - who selflessly provided eye care services to those in need. Witnessing first-hand the impact of these efforts on his community, he resolved to pursue a career that would bring transformative change to the lives of many. 

Ayukotang’s academic journey took him across Africa and Europe. He completed his Doctor of Optometry (OD) degree (equivalent to UKZN’s Bachelor of Optometry degree) at Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) in Ghana, where he made history as the first foreign student elected as college president - a remarkable achievement that gained national recognition. His pursuit of excellence continued when he was awarded a Commonwealth Scholarship to obtain an MSc in Public Health for Eye Care from the prestigious London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine in the United Kingdom. 

Ayukotang’s research was supervised by renowned optometrist Professor Vanessa Raquel Moodley and Professor Khathutshelo Percy Mashige, who is the current Dean of the School of Health Sciences at UKZN. 

His research, titled: “Developing a Keratoconus Management Framework in Cameroon: Prevalence, Risk Factors, and Stakeholder Insights”, is a ground-breaking study that is directly relevant to the Cameroonian healthcare landscape. This pioneering study highlights the prevalence and risk factors of keratoconus while offering actionable insights to enhance patient care and management in resource-limited settings. 

Beyond academia, Ayukotang has played a pivotal role in transforming the landscape of optometry in Cameroon. Following his OD training, he championed the registration of the Cameroon Association of Optometrists and was instrumental in advocating for the recognition of optometry as an essential healthcare profession. His efforts led to the establishment of the Cameroon Council of Optometry and the launch of the first Doctor of Optometry programme at the University of Buea, earning him the distinguished title, “Father of Optometry in Cameroon”. 

His leadership transcends national borders. In 2020, he became the first Cameroonian Fellow of the American Academy of Optometry, a landmark achievement that highlights his commitment to advancing clinical practice, research and education. Through his involvement in various global committees, he continues to advocate for optometric development and public health improvements worldwide. 

As the Founder and CEO of the Enowntai Nkongho Ayukotang Vision Institute (ENAVI) and ENAVI LLC USA, Ayukotang remains dedicated to bridging healthcare gaps. His institute provides quality eye care and homecare services while also mentoring future healthcare professionals and implementing initiatives to empower individuals and enhance public health outcomes. 

Despite his numerous professional accolades, Ayukotang remains deeply connected to his cultural roots. He is a traditional leader, serving as the head of the Defang Royal Family and a distinguished member of the Royal Notable Boh Mbu family in Akiriba, Mbang Clan of Upper Banyangi, Manyu Division. His leadership extends to the prestigious Mgbe/Ekpe Society in his clan and throughout the Manyu Division, where he holds the revered title, Amanekundu Sessekou Dr Enowntai Nkongho Ayukotang. 

Beyond his professional and community commitments, he is a devoted family man, happily married to Mrs Katty Mbikang Ayukotang, with whom he shares the joy of raising two children, Ekongmaya and Enowntai. In his leisure time, he enjoys swimming, engaging with the elderly, and giving back to his community.

Words: MaryAnn Francis

Photograph: Sethu Dlamini