This year’s theme is “Caring for our Children’s Vision and Young People’s future”. Globally, there is recognition that vision is essential for children’s education, development, and well-being. Despite this, millions of children suffer from visual impairment, myopia among children is growing rapidly, and lack of access to vision care is still predominant. There seems to be a big disconnect between the recognised need and the policies and actions needed to address this.
The meeting in Boston will focus on sharing experiences that enhance access to eye health care by children in different countries, emphasising the approaches that can promote policy recognition, encourage collaboration with other professionals to address gaps in the optometric workforce, and explore the impact of vision in learning by children.
This year, we also pay attention to the importance of mental health among optometry students, focusing on a study among a few African universities and taking a preliminary look at the situation in the US. Supporting optometry students during their education is also important to ensure they achieve their maximum potential and job satisfaction.
The program includes the presentation of the two VOSH/International Awards and the inauguration of the new President of VOSH/International (2025-2027) and a new Board member from the Eastern Mediterranean region.
You are warmly invited to join us in person or online.
