Orbis International, a global nonprofit dedicated to eye care, has partnered with Rwanda's Ministry of Health to launch a two-week transformational training program at Flying Eye Hospital.
The world's only fully accredited ophthalmology teaching hospital, this unique MD-10 aircraft is donated by FedEx.
It serves as a mobile hub for hands-on training and has high skills in local eye care professionals.
With support from the Alcon Foundation and Omega, hosted at Rwanda International Ophthalmology (RIIO) and Kibagabaga Hospital, the project aims to enhance local expertise, raise eye health awareness, and improve access to vision savings across Rwanda.
First action in Rwanda
This is the first time that Flying Eye Hospital has made landfall in Rwanda. This will make Rwanda the 84th country and benefit from Orvis' in-person training.
Since 1982, Orbis has reached 97 countries in more than 200 countries through its telehealth platform Cybersight.
The Rwanda Project offers a blend of simulation training, hands-on surgical practices, patient care and workshops.
These focus on major ophthalmic subspecies. This includes cataracts, strabismus, ocular formation, and medical retina, along with training in anesthesiology, nursing and biomedical engineering.
The highlight of the program is the use of virtual reality (VR) simulations for cataract surgical training. Selected participants will improve their surgical techniques using portable VR tools jointly developed by Orbis.
At the end of the project, Orbis will donate one of these devices to RIIO, allowing for continuous practice. Additionally, Orbis is working with medical technology company Haag-Streit to provide additional VR-based training to participants in another group.
This cutting-edge technology enables local experts to master complex procedures in a safe, controlled environment.
Dr. Ciku Mathenge, Orvis' African Medical Advisor, provided comments on the initiative. “Traking Flying Eye Hospital to Rwanda is a milestone. It expands our mission and supports the country's eye health priorities,” she said.
“By partnering with Riio, the leader in ophthalmology training in East Africa, we equip the next generation of Rwandan ophthalmologists with advanced skills and skills.
Supports eye health and medical innovation
The project is based on Rwandan's commitment to advance eye health and medical innovation. The initiative is supported by the Ministry of Health and Rwandan airports and aviation authorities. Orbis is committed to ensuring the success of the program.
As an outstanding centre, Rio plays a pivotal role in this effort. The skills, knowledge and technology shared during training will not only benefit Rwanda, but will have a wider impact across Africa.
By empowering eye care professionals through Riio's leadership, Orbis helps create sustainable, high quality eye care systems across the region.
This initiative highlights the power of collaboration in addressing global eye health challenges. By combining innovative technology, professional-led training and strong partnerships, Orbis helps Rwanda build a brighter future for its community.
A unique Flying Eye Hospital visit is a step towards ensuring quality eye care is accessible to everyone, changing one visual saving procedure at a time.
