The Orbis Flying Eye Hospital, a renowned international non-profit organization, commenced its 11th training program in Bangladesh on Sunday, marking its 5th visit to Chattogram. The organization, which provided eye care services to approximately 16 million people in Bangladesh over the past two decades, committed to improving the quality of eye care in the country.
The inauguration ceremony was held at the Imran Seminar Hall of Chittagong Eye Infirmary and Training Complex (CEITC) on Sunday. Chattogram City Corporation mayor Dr. Shahadat Hossain addressed the inaugural session as chief guest.
CCC mayor expressed his gratitude to Orbis as it served the city people in eye care services over the past 22 years. Professor Dr. Rabiul Hussain, founder and managing trustee of CEITC, acknowledged Orbis' pivotal role in developing skilled human resources in the field of modern eye care in Bangladesh.
He expressed hope that Orbis would continue its support in human resource development and eye care services. Dr. Rafiqul Hossain, an international eye specialist, further emphasized that due to Orbis' training programs, CEITC has become a leading center for pediatric eye care. The expertise gained through these programs has been disseminated to 14 hospitals across Bangladesh, leading to the establishment of new pediatric eye care departments.
Derek Hodkey, president and CEO of Orbis International, expressed his pride in partnering with the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare and CEITC to bring the Flying Eye Hospital to Bangladesh once again.
Hodkie also expressed gratitude for the support of Alcon Cares, Alcon Foundation, and FedEx. Orbis has conducted eye examinations in Bangladesh over the past 20 years, provided eye care services to 4.5 million adults and children, performed over 258,000 eye surgeries, and trained over 40,000 eye care professionals.
The training program, which will continue until November 28, will focus on various areas, including cataract, glaucoma, retina, oculoplastic, and corneal diseases. There will be workshops on neuro-ophthalmology, optometry webinars, nursing, and biomedical engineering.
Messenger/SK/EHM
