Seventy (70) third-year students of the Department of Optometry and Visual Science of the College of Science (CoS), of the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), have been ushered into their clinical years of study during the 5th White Coat Ceremony held on Friday, 8th July 2022 at the Allotey Auditorium.
In his welcome address, the Head of the Department of Optometry and Visual Science, Dr. Kwadwo Owusu Akuffo, described the significance of the ‘White Coat Ceremony’ as a special ceremony held annually to usher students into the clinical phase of their studies.
He indicated that the rite of passage signifies a new beginning and a new phase in their development as care providers while emphasising the deep and significant professional responsibilities to their patients and communities. ‘Your white coat is a sign of purity, integrity, commitment, and a constant reminder to lead honourable lives, therefore, take your commitment to become proficient in the science and techniques of clinical practice seriously’, he advised.
Speaking on the theme, ‘Eye Health in a Changing World, the Role of the Optometrist’ the Provost of the College of Science, Professor Leonard K. Amekudzi observed that globally, at least 2.2 billion people are visually impaired, and given the numerous challenges eye care faces worldwide, it has become paramount for an optometrist to be well-equipped with the appropriate skills and competencies needed to deliver their duties effectively, hence the need for the White Coat Ceremony.
Professor Amekudzi revealed that about 14 million optometrists are needed globally to develop innovative eye care models and improve their capacity through strategic research and education. Also, to provide effective and adequate eye care services as outlined by the World Health Organisation’s global recommendation of a ‘1 practitioner to 600 patients ratio.’ He added that optometrists also have a critical role in achieving the International Agency for Prevention and Blindness, 2030 In Sight; - a strategy that aims to see a world where no one experiences unnecessary or avoidable sight loss.
To this end, the Provost charged the students to not only be Optometrists but Humanitarians who are concerned with and seek to promote human welfare regardless of where they find themselves. ‘Do not just be a primary eye caregiver, rather aspire to be someone who improves the world’s sight better.
Dr. Jeremiah Johnson Ati-Jahenen, representative of the Ghana Optometry Association congratulated them on their successful completion of the challenging half of their 6-year education to becoming an Optometrist. He also encouraged them to enter their clinical years with confidence both in knowledge and involvement in various continuous professional developments and research works with prospective clients in mind.
He was hopeful that they would continue to make the Association proud by lifting the noble profession of Optometry high, making sure visions are restored and sights saved.
Justice of the High Court of Ghana, His Lordship Justice Samuel Obeng Diawuo administered the oath.