As 2022 draws to a close, and we will soon be entering a new year, it is an appropriate time to reflect on what has happened over the past year. Optometry as a profession has made some significant advances in many countries, with legislation progressing, and new or revised courses in optometry commencing. Optometry has been well represented at high levels internationally, with many of our colleagues involved in WHO and IAPB working groups and committees.
As a profession we should also show our gratitude to the many volunteers who give their expertise and time to the professional organizations who represent us nationally and internationally. Without their generous contributions of their knowledge and experience our profession would not be progressing and would not be making its contribution to managing the burden of ocular disease and refractive error. I would like to encourage all our colleagues in 2023 to think about how they would like to see their profession grow, and what we need to achieve to make a greater impact on vision care for all peoples of the world.
On a more personal note, I would like to thank all my colleagues who have contributed to the WCO committees and their activities, and to our valued staff in the WCO office whose commitment and contribution is invaluable.
With the end of the year approaching, I hope you will join me in reflecting on the growth of our profession in 2022, and for good fortune for all our colleagues and our profession in the coming year.
Peter Hendicott, WCO President