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During the World Ophthalmology Congress (WOC 2012) in Abu Dhabi, the world’s largest gathering of eye specialists, a session aimed specifically for young ophthalmologists took place 20 February at 8.30am.
WOC 2012 – is hosted in the region by the Middle East Africa Council of Ophthalmology for the first time – is providing this platform for young ophthalmologists to nurture the talent of tomorrow, with education being the main topic under scrutiny.
Dr. Abdulaziz AlRajhi, President of WOC 2012, said: “It is vital that we pay heed to properly supporting young ophthalmologists. WOC 2012 is a fantastic platform for those beginning a career in our sector to find – and be given – peer support, enhance their knowledge bank and take advantage of the networking opportunities the conference presents.
“The young ophthalmologists’ session is also testament to the hard work that ophthalmology professional bodies are putting in to develop strong support networks for the future of our profession.”
The session is a collaboration between the young ophthalmology groups from the Middle East and Africa Council of Ophthalmology (MEACO), the American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO) and the European Society of Ophthalmology (SOE).
Dr AlRajhi said the session will follow a ’chat show’ format and will discuss the challenges and possible solutions of continuing education in a rapidly changing world.
“Topics include how the European Board of Ophthalmology aims to harmonise education throughout Europe, how the Arab Board aims to structure training in the region, and the particular difficulties in surgical training faced by all regions,” said the President of WOC 2012.
“The increasing role of social media provides new opportunities but also potential pitfalls, and these will also be discussed. We hope to provide an engaging platform for discussion,” he added.
The AAO’s young ophthalmologist (YO) group has been established for many years, and its role within the overall structure of AAO has grown considerably.
Inspired by its success, an SOE YO and, more recently, a YO Group within MEACO have been established to address the local needs of young ophthalmologists. Each region has its own challenges for trainees, and those starting independent practice.
“The Middle East’s ophthalmology discipline has seen huge advances in recent years and the congress will play a significant role in developing and enhancing the skills of UAE-based doctors and enriching their knowledge through access to the latest research, developments and new technologies. Local education on new techniques ultimately brings patients state-of-the-art technology and care,” said Dr AlRajhi.
The Congress’ in-depth scientific programme covers more than 35 sub-specialty and topic areas in ophthalmology and eye health. More than 45 sessions have been organised by International Council of Ophthalmology (ICO) members and participating societies - representing ICO-affiliated regional and international societies.
The scientific programme is accompanied by an exhibition of more than 180 local, regional and international ophthalmic companies and organisations showcasing the latest innovations in the field of ophthalmology and related products and services.
WOC 2012 is being hosted by the Middle East Africa Council of Ophthalmology (MEACO), which represents the national and sub-regional ophthalmological societies in Africa and the Middle East, including Turkey and Iran.
WOC 2012 is the longest continuous international medical meeting – which is being hosted at the prestigious ADNEC in the UAE capital. WOC 2012, which runs till today (20 February), is hosting over 400 scientific sessions on the latest updates in eye health, presented by some 2,200 internationally recognised speakers to more than 10,000 delegates from 136 countries.
For further information on WOC 2012 or to register, please visit www.woc2012.org
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