This year, the World Council of Optometry (WCO) celebrated World Optometry Week 2024 from March 17 – 23, and specifically World Optometry Day on March 23, with the theme “Advancing Optometry’s Commitment to Global Eye Care.”
See how some of our member and partner organizations celebrated World Optometry Week in the highlights below.
Asia Pacific Council of Optometry (APCO)
In recognition of World Optometry Month, the Asia Pacific Council of Optometry (APCO) hosted a dynamic webinar focusing on Advocacy and Legislation, themed “Promoting Optometrist role as Primary Eye Care provider through Advocacy & Legislation” with three esteemed panelists. Dr. Roger Jordan, WCO Legislation, Registration, and Standards Committee Chair, USA; Dr. Cindy Tromans, WCO President-Elect, UK; and Mr. Dipak Kumar Sah, General Secretary, Nepalese Association of Optometrists, Nepal, shared invaluable insights and expertise, enriching the discourse on this vital subject.
Association of Malaysian Optometrists (AMO)
In honor of World Optometry Day 2024, the Association of Malaysian Optometrists (AMO) orchestrated a series of impactful events, echoing the theme of ‘Advancing Optometry’s Commitment to Global Eyecare.’ Through collaboration, education, and community engagement, the AMO left an indelible mark on the landscape of eye health in Malaysia.
World Optometry Day Seminar: Shaping the Future of Eye Health
On March 6th, 2024, the AMO hosted a seminal event titled ‘Shaping the Future of Eye Health: Community Optometrists at the Forefront.’ This seminar served as a platform for optometry professionals to converge, exchange insights, and chart the course for the future of eye care. Discussions revolved around the pivotal role community optometrists play in addressing global eyecare challenges, emphasizing proactive measures and innovative approaches.
Vision Screening and Spectacle Provision for Orphanage Children
A heartwarming collaboration unfolded on March 7th, 2024, as UCSI University Optometry Schools, in partnership with AMO and Focus Point, conducted free vision screenings for orphanage children. Beyond diagnosis, the initiative extended to providing complimentary spectacles, ensuring that every child had the opportunity to experience the world with clarity. This endeavor exemplified the spirit of compassion and collective responsibility toward enhancing vision health among vulnerable populations.
Facebook Profile Badge Campaign: Advocacy in the Digital Sphere
Harnessing the power of social media, AMO launched a Facebook profile badge initiative. Members were encouraged to adorn their profile photos with the World Optometry Day 2024 and AMO logo, amplifying awareness and recognition of optometrists’ indispensable role in primary eye care. This digital advocacy campaign served as a visual testament to the profession’s dedication to advancing eyecare globally, fostering a sense of unity and purpose among practitioners.
In summary, the events orchestrated by the Association of Malaysian Optometrists in conjunction with World Optometry Day 2024 embodied a holistic approach towards advancing eyecare. From knowledge dissemination and community outreach to digital advocacy, each initiative contributed to the overarching mission of ensuring optimal vision health for all. Through collaboration, innovation, and unwavering commitment, the AMO continues to be a beacon of hope and progress in the realm of optometry in Malaysia.
Botswana Optometrists Association
Botswana Optometrists Association – My Gene Dx, India, collaborated Genetic counseling course valedictory function was virtually conducted on 23 March 2024, World Optometry Day. The Guest of honor for Botswana was Dr. Alfred Madigele, the Former Minister for Health and The Guest of Honor for India was Dr. B. Vidya Shankar, both an Optometrist and Ophthalmologist by profession. The virtual meet was graced with empowering remarks by Dr. Sandra Block, President of the World Council of Optometry, Dr. Patrick Mawila, African Regional Representative of the World Council of Optometry, Dr. Enowntai Nkongho Ayukotang, President of African Council of Optometry, Dr. Levi Osuagwu,President ,African Chapter of American Academy of Optometry, Dr. R. Krishnakumar, Former Principal of Elite school of Optometry and Mr. A. Mahalingam, CEO & Founder of Twin Tech Academy, Dr. Adnaan Naana, ESA Medical Advisor, Novartis (SA).The guests were introduced by Prof. Kumaramanickavel, CEO & Founder of My Gene Dx ,India and Optom. Thanuja Panicker-Naicker, the Chairperson of Botswana Optometrists Association.
The course was fully sponsored by Novartis (South Africa) to all the members of Botswana Optometrists Association.
BOA Chairperson Thanuja Panicker-Naicker led the World Optometry Day Special Community Eye Care Activity On 23 March 2024, through support from her private practice, EyeLight Optometrists. Panicker-Naicker represented both Botswana Optometrists Association and her practice-Eyelight Optometrists at the eye and health care activity organized by Balekane Botswana, Thamaga wellness by providing free clinical eye care services to a total of 108 elderly. A donation of 67 free reading spectacles was done by EyeLight Optometrists. Out of the 108 screened, only 24 of them had normal vision, while 17 were referred to the closest Government Hospital for further line of management.
Indian Optometric Association
On the occasion of World Optometry Day, celebrated annually on March 23rd, the Indian Optometric Association (IOA) orchestrated a series of events nationwide, echoing the global theme designated by the World Optometry Council: “Advancing Optometry’s Commitment to Global Eye Care.”
The Member institutes of the Indian Optometric Association enthusiastically participated in commemorating the pivotal role of optometry in eye care.
The Department of Optometry, Regional Institute of Paramedical and Nursing Science (RIPANS) celebrated the WOD-24 on 23rd March, 2024 with the theme: Advancing Optometry’s Commitment to Global Eye Care, at CiRa Garden, ITI, Aizawl, Mizoram, India.
Main activities the WOD-24:
- Scientific programs: A short talk on the theme and poster presentations and a talk on the awareness of ARMD
- Cultural competitions, and
- Outdoor activities: the blind race, musical chair, caterpillar race which was followed by lunch.
A Total of 130, Students (101Nos), faculty and staff (11Nos) and supporting staff (8Nos) of the Optometry department were present for the event.
In honor of World Optometry Day 2024, the Department of Optometry at the University Institute of Allied Health Sciences, Chandigarh University, organized various activities under the theme “Advanced Optometry and Global Eye Care.” The event featured expert talks by Dr. Rajeev Prasad, President APCO; Dr. Kamal Pant, Dean of UPUMS, Safai; and Dr. Kuldeep Raizada, CEO-Akriti Ophthalmic Pvt Ltd .These talks provided invaluable insights for optometry students in advancing eye care. Additionally, eye camps were conducted in nearby schools, and a Project Expo 2024 showcased student projects, ideas, and products related to research and innovation in optometry. Under the leadership of Dr. Himanshu Tripathi, Director of the University Institute of Allied Health Sciences, and Mr. Labishetty Sai Charan, Head of the Department of Optometry, the department actively contributed to the global theme of World Optometry Day 2024. The active participation of students and unwavering support from the Chandigarh University management ensured the event’s success.
World Optometry Day 2024 was joyously observed at Milestones Institute of Allied Health Sciences, Bangalore on March 23, 2024, under the theme “Advancing Optometry’s Commitment to Global Eye Care.” The event commenced with an inaugural ceremony led by Director Rekha Chalapathi, followed by a presidential address and enlightening talks by esteemed Optometry faculty members. Engaging competitions, including Fastest Retinoscopy, Optometry Quiz, and Poster Presentation, were organized for B.Sc Optometry students. The festivities concluded with a special cake cutting ceremony, symbolizing unity and camaraderie among faculty members and student optometrists.
India Vision Institute
India Vision Institute celebrated World Optometry Day at seven community camps, contributing to vision screening of more than 800 individuals.
Nepalese Association of Optometrists
The Nepalese Association of Optometrists celebrated World Optometry Day with several events throughout Nepal.
Nigerian Optometric Association
The Nigeria Optometric Association marked World Optometry Week through media engagement and the National Delegates Congress held in Awka, Nigeria between March 22-23, World Optometry Day 2024.
Optometry Council of India
The Optometry Council of India marked World Optometry Day with the theme “Comprehensive Eye Examination”. To spread awareness, OCI shared the comprehensive eye examination video across all its social media platforms. Additionally, OCI initiated an Instagram thread, encouraging practitioners to tag OCI while showcasing their involvement in comprehensive eye examinations at their respective practices. Watch the video here.
Unsung Heroes Session
Additionally, a special edition of Optometry Council of India (OCI)’s Unsung Heroes series was presented live on OCI’s Facebook page on 22 March 2024, with Optician India as a media partner. Three optometrists from diverse backgrounds were the panelists and spoke about their effortless commitment to community eye health. Watch the session here.
World Optometry Day celebrations at D Y Patil University, Navi Mumbai
Ms. Harshada Kale, OCI’s Head of Education, attended the World Optometry Day event at Dr. D. Y. Patil University, Navi Mumbai, on March 23, 2024. She spoke on OCI’s work in optometry and the benefits of OCI membership for students to around 80 participants across three colleges.
Singapore Optometric Association
On World Optometry Day, March 23, 2024, the Singapore Optometric Association (SOA) hosted a webinar and proudly released the SOA Orthokeratology (Ortho-K) Fitting and Management Guidelines. These newly established guidelines mark a pivotal step in enhancing the standards and practices of Ortho-K fitting. Ortho-K is a non-surgical procedure using specially designed contact lenses to temporarily reshape the cornea and improve vision. As the popularity of Ortho-K grows, these guidelines provide a crucial framework for practitioners, ensuring safe and effective treatment outcomes.
The initiative demonstrates a robust commitment by the optometry community in Singapore to uphold and elevate the quality of care provided to patients. By
standardizing best practices, the guidelines aim to foster a deeper understanding and competence among optometrists, enhancing patient safety and treatment efficacy. This milestone not only enriches the local optometric landscape but also sets a commendable example globally, reinforcing the importance of continuous
improvement and high standards in the ever-evolving field of optometry.
Sri Lanka Optometric Association (SLOA)
The Sri Lanka Optometric Association (SLOA) worked to uphold the World Council of Optometry’s World Optometry Week theme, “Advancing Optometry’s Commitment to Global Eye Care” by increasing community access to high-quality vision care.
SLOA held an eye camp at Matale, to fulfill their civic responsibility of educating the public about vision care and prevention.
We, Sri Lanka Optometric Association have the pleasure of announcing the completion of another successful Asata Saviya Community Health Camp. We would like to express our heartfelt gratitude to all our colleagues who made important contributions.
A total of 400 people were examined for spectacles, and nearly 250 were identified with refractive issues. More than 50 patients were considered for cataract surgery, while those with other eye diseases were sent to ophthalmologists.
Syndicat des Opticiens et Optométristes au Liban (SOOLB)
As part of the World Optometry Month celebrations in March 2024, the Syndicat des Opticiens et Optométristes au Liban (SOOLB) hosted a webinar on March 23, World Optometry Day: “Corneal Stromal Regeneration with Stem Cells in Advanced Keratoconus.” Dr. Mona ElZarif led the session.