Global eyecare company Alcon is supporting the University of New South Wales (UNSW) School of Optometry and Vision Science with an educational grant aimed at enhancing access to optometry education for students facing socio-economic challenges.
Twenty-one grant recipients, determined by UNSW School of Optometry and Vision, will be getting help with placement-related costs because of the Alcon Grant-In-Aid scheme, which promotes diversity and inclusion within the program and helps ensure students succeed.
In a media release supporting the announcement, A/Prof Jacqueline Tan, director of UNSW’s Eye Research Group, said: “The School of Optometry and Vision Science, UNSW Sydney, is very grateful to Alcon for the provision of an Independent Medical Educational (IME) Grant in 2024.
“Funds received were used to support students in the Master of Clinical Optometry program to attend placements in real-world clinical practice settings.”
The release said students were encouraged to share their experiences through reflective writings, illustrating how the Alcon Grant-In-Aid has positively impacted their placement opportunities and academic journeys.
“The grant was awarded to 21 students facing socio-economic disadvantages or financial hardship and the grant contributed to the cost of travelling to interstate and regional placements,” A/Prof Tan said.
“The students reported that the grants alleviated personal stress, enabling them to focus on learning while gaining exposure to different communities and healthcare environments. The grant motivated them to excel as students and future optometrists, benefiting society.”
Mr Victor Loh, Alcon’s APAC head of medical affairs, said: “We are thrilled to collaborate with the UNSW School of Optometry and Vision Science to advance the goal of ensuring equal access to education in the field of optometry.
“Our joint commitment is to empower aspiring optometrists and elevate the standard of eye care, access and ultimately improving the quality of people’s vision, by helping them see brilliantly.”
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