31st July 2024, Colombo: Vision Care Academy, the educational institute of Sri Lanka’s largest vision and eye wear solutions provider Vision Care, conducted its 14th Annual Scientific Sessions and Optometry Day with a full-day event held under the theme “See the Future Through Exploration”.
The primary goal of this annual program is to provide a platform for researchers to present their cutting-edge research findings, exchange knowledge, and foster collaboration in the field of optometry. It also provides an opportunity for encouraging in-depth learning, knowledge-sharing, and networking among professionals in the field. This event also served as the official convocation ceremony of the Academy where certificates are awarded to the students successfully completed their respective courses. Additionally, the event is the company’s research symposium and students who have carried out outstanding research projects were recognized for their excellent performances. Beyond the research presentations, the session also included a photography contest winner announcement and the culmination of a quiz competition. These engaging activities, alongside the sharing of innovative research and knowledge, solidified Vision Care Academy’s dedication to fostering a vibrant and dynamic learning environment within the optometry industry.
The event was graced by the presence of Chief Guest Rowena McNamara, Senior Consultant Orthoptist, and Guest of Honor Dr. Muditha Kulatunga, Senior Consultant Eye Surgeon. Informative sessions were held on a wide range of Optometry and Hearing Care topics by Prof. Madhuwanthi Dissanayake, Dr. Ganga Jayasena, Anantha Lakshmi, and Jayashree Sekar. The distinguished panel of judges comprised Dr. Dimuthu Gunasekara, Dr. Prasad Hewawasam, Mrs. Anantha Lakshmi, Dr. Upali Mendis, and Dr. Amila De Alwis, ensuring a fair and rigorous evaluation of the research findings presented.
Vidya Jayarathna – Head of Vision Care Academy stated, “The Optometry Day and Annual Scientific Session is one of the most important events in the Vision Care calendar. We are grateful to the many distinguished guests for taking time off their busy schedules to enlighten all of us about the latest developments in the field of Optometry and Hearing Care. As always, Vision Care Academy has led from the front in educating young minds in this field and we will continue to do so into the future.”
The event concluded with the handing over of certificates to Vision Care Academy graduates while several individuals took home awards in multiple Research categories. Some of the award winners were Sachith Udayanga & Imesha Thennakoon (Innovative Study of the Year), Dewmi Dewanarayana (Best Research of the Year and Upcoming Presenter- Diploma in Optometry Junior – Lateral Entry), Nirmitha Nithianantham (Best Poster Presentation -Optometry), Rashmi Abeysena (Best Oral Presenter -Certificate in Vision Therapy Category).
Vision Care Academy was established in 2008 with the objective of providing in-house training to Vision Care employees. Today, it has evolved into a fully-facilitated training institute that offers a world-class educational experience in Optometry. It has a highly-qualified well-experienced lecture panel and also brings in lecturers from leading Universities in Sri Lanka to give the students the most comprehensive education in Optometry. Vision Care Academy conducts 4 full-time courses on eye and hearing care under the supervision of Tertiary and Vocational Education Commission (TVEC). They are Certificate program for Ophthalmic Assistants (COA), Certificate program for Audiometrians (CAD), Certificate program for Dispensing Opticians (CDO) and Diploma program for Optometrists (DOP). Vision Care Academy is a full-time member of the Association of Schools and Colleges of Optometry India and Affiliate Member of the World Council of Optometry.