Exciting developments are underway, including the formation of two new Strategy Implementation Groups focused on refractive error and cataracts! Dive in to explore these new resources and engagement opportunities.
Governance News. The 2023 Member Engagement Group Review garnered valuable insights into the IAPB work groups and resulted in a series of recommendations that charted a clear vision to harness the power of member groups to drive the implementation of 2030 In Sight, enhance member engagement and optimize group dynamics. Going forward, four member led work groups (Vision Rehabilitation, School Eye Health, Human Resources for Eye Health (HREH) and Refractive Error) will consolidate into the newly formed Refractive Error Strategy Implementation Group.
Two new strategy implementation groups. Two new strategy implementation groups are now in action to provide leadership and technical guidance for IAPB members and other stakeholders on priority matters relating to refractive error & cataract. It specifically provides support for IAPB members to advocate for and assist member states in achieving effective refractive error coverage and effective cataract surgical coverage goals as supported in the WHA resolution 2021. Watch out for more information here as we update the engagement opportunities with these groups and further details.
Work Groups at 2030 IN SIGHT LIVE, Mexico. Work Group Day at IN SIGHT LIVE Mexico proved to be a remarkable event, drawing over 240 members from around the globe. Participants engaged in dynamic workshops, thought-provoking debates, and productive discussions, with ample opportunities to connect over a long lunch with like-minded colleagues. The day was kicked off with an agenda setting panel discussion, focusing on the benefits and strategies for work groups to collaborate effectively and accelerate action. Throughout the day, nine groups convened to delve into their specific issues and work plans. We extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone involved for their contributions to the success of the Work Group Day and express our gratitude to APEC for hosting the event.
We are at the forefront in promoting climate action within eye health through our Climate Action Work Group (CAWG) and members. The Guide for Environmentally Sustainable Practices in Eye Health Sectoris a practical guide (now also available in Spanish, French & Portuguese) developed by the CAWG to support the eye health community to minimize the environmental impact of eye health services and support climate change resilience.
Our School Eye Health Workgroup released the updated “Standard Guidelines for Comprehensive School Eye Health programmes” at 2030 IN SIGHT LIVE, Mexico. These guidelines direct the planning and implementation of school eye health initiatives for policymakers, health authorities, and related professionals. They emphasize effective, efficient, and sustainable programs, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. Monitoring and evaluation should be planned from the outset, and existing local guidelines should be integrated.
Gender Equity Toolkit from the Gender Equity Work Group provides guidance, resources, tools and programmatic best practice examples to help plan and deliver eye health programmes that are gender sensitive, gender responsive and/or gender transformative. Our hope is that by using the tools provided, the global eye health sector will strengthen gender equity in our organisations and programmes collectively. IAPB with leadership from the group, will soon release the Gender Equity in Eye Health survey, a biennial undertaking to understand our sector’s journey to gender parity.
