Orbis, BCPS Discuss Stronger Eye Care Collaboration

Orbis International Board Vice Chair Diana Wheeler inquired about BCPS’s academic programmes and training facilities for ophthalmic professionals.

Orbis International and the Bangladesh College of Physicians and Surgeons (BCPS) have explored ways to deepen their collaboration to enhance ophthalmic training and expand access to quality eye care services in Bangladesh.

The discussion took place on Saturday during a meeting between Orbis International Board Vice Chair Diana Wheeler and the BCPS leadership team in Dhaka.

Both sides expressed optimism that stronger cooperation would help improve professional skills in eye care and contribute to reducing avoidable blindness across the country.

BCPS Secretary Professor Abul Bashar Md Jamal and Director (Administration) Professor Mohammad Aminul Islam represented the institution at the meeting, along with faculty members and Orbis International officials. Orbis International Bangladesh Country Director Dr Munir Ahmed was also present.

During the meeting, Wheeler inquired about BCPS’s academic programmes and training facilities for ophthalmic professionals. She appreciated the institution’s role in developing skilled eye care specialists in Bangladesh.

“I’m impressed to see the facilities at BCPS for training ophthalmic professionals, especially given the rising demand for eye care services in Bangladesh,” she said.

She added that Orbis International remains committed to supporting initiatives that strengthen sustainable eye care systems and expand access to quality treatment.

The two organisations currently collaborate on advancing surgical training in cataract care through Modular Small Incision Cataract Surgery (MSICS). The partnership also includes structured learning through Cybersight courses and simulation-based training using Fundamental VR technology.

These training tools are designed to help ophthalmologists refine surgical skills in a controlled environment, improving safety and efficiency in real-life procedures.

BCPS officials thanked Orbis International for its long-standing support, noting that the partnership has significantly contributed to strengthening the capacity of eye care professionals in Bangladesh.

They also highlighted that continued collaboration would help expand specialised training opportunities and improve service delivery for patients, particularly in underserved areas.

During her four-day visit to Bangladesh, Wheeler also travelled to Nilphamari and Rangpur to observe Women-Led Green Vision Centres operated by Deep Eye Care Foundation. Orbis International has supported the establishment of 58 vision centres across the country, including 32 led by women, aimed at reaching rural and underserved communities.

She also visited a large-scale cataract care programme currently being implemented across 59 districts. The initiative aims to perform around 100,000 cataract surgeries and conduct one million eye screenings over a two-year period, focusing on low-income populations.

Officials said the combined efforts of Orbis International and local partners are helping to strengthen Bangladesh’s eye care system and bring essential services closer to communities in need.