KeraLink’s Role Alongside IAPB: Training That Changes Lives

Timed to coincide with the 2025 IAPB Global Event, 2030 In Sight Live in Nepal, KeraLink International (KLI), together with Dr. Shroff’s Charity Eye Hospital (SCEH) and Tilganga Institute of Ophthalmology (TIO), led a groundbreaking Corneal Infectious Keratitis Workshop in Kathmandu. This specialized training directly addressed infectious keratitis, one of global eye health’s most pressing yet often overlooked issues, by equipping comprehensive ophthalmologists with advanced corneal treatment techniques.

Although not formally part of the official IAPB agenda, the workshop strategically took place just before the global conference, maximizing impact and ensuring immediate practical benefits to Nepal, the host country. These workshops are typically capped at 15 participants; however, due to enthusiastic interest from across the country, the cohort was expanded to include 22 practicing ophthalmologists from 20 institutions across 13 cities. To support this larger group without compromising quality, we brought in additional facilitators, resources, and materials, ensuring every participant received the same level of attention and hands-on learning. The high level of interest in the workshop highlights the urgency and growing demand for advanced training in corneal care. Each participant represented meaningful local and regional potential—from remote Himalayan villages to major urban healthcare centers.

Dr. Umang Mathur, CEO of SCEH, Dr. Manisha Acharya, Director of the SCEH Corneal Services Network and Eye Bank Network, and Dr. Nikunj V. Patel, SCEH Consultant for Cornea, Anterior Segment & Refractive Services, led presentations and interactive sessions at TIO. Their contributions highlighted the urgent need to address corneal infections, a condition affecting millions worldwide that can lead to blindness. Yet, corneal blindness remains largely neglected in national prevention programs—a “silent crisis” that KeraLink International and our dedicated partners aim to eliminate.

Workshop Highlights: Practical Skills for Immediate Impact

The workshop was designed to equip participants with practical skills they could immediately apply in their practices, and included:

• Case-based Learning: Engaged participants in realistic clinical scenarios to sharpen diagnostic and treatment decision-making.
• Hands-on Wet Lab Training: Provided essential experience with simulation models to refine precise surgical techniques.
• Advanced Surgical Techniques: Included demonstrations on glue application, amniotic membrane grafting, and corneal tattooing.
• Comprehensive Clinical Handbook: Offered participants an invaluable reference guide for ongoing education and peer-led training.

The feedback from attendees was very positive. One participant remarked, “I enjoyed all parts of the workshop. Both theoretical and practical sessions were fruitful and focused, not overwhelming. There should be more workshops like this.

” The enthusiasm generated by this training extended beyond the event itself, prompting attendees to request the creation of a WhatsApp group to maintain dialogue, discuss best practices in care, and foster long-term professional connections focused on reducing blindness and improving patient care. To continue nurturing this collaborative spirit, KeraLink will conduct a series of follow-up calls with participants. These will include a six-month check-in designed to share stories, reflect on clinical outcomes, and learn from one another’s experiences and the application of newly acquired skills.

KeraLink’s Continued Commitment with IAPB

Our partnership with IAPB goes beyond strategic alignment; it symbolizes global solidarity. Together, we are committed to ensuring no one suffers avoidable blindness simply because of their geographic location or economic circumstances. Every person deserves access to sight-saving care and the dignity it provides. Moving forward, KeraLink International is committed to deepening our engagement alongside IAPB by:

• Enhancing Resources: Regularly updating the IAPB website with the latest materials and findings on corneal blindness.
• Strengthening Knowledge: Expanding the Corneal Blindness Knowledge Hub as a central repository for training resources and best practices.
• Gender Equity Leadership: Actively participating in the IAPB Gender Equity Working Group.
• Innovative Training: Developing tailored training and advocacy opportunities for implementation in 2025 and beyond.

Looking Ahead: Expanding Our Impact

The success of the Corneal Infectious Keratitis Workshop in Nepal highlights the transformative power of practical, hands-on training programs to not only to enable clinicians to deliver crucial treatment but also to educate and inspire their peers.

KLI visited SCEH back in February, where the idea for this event was sparked during conversations between Jeff Soulliere, Director of Strategic Partnerships & Initiatives, and Rakhi Nathawat, Senior Manager of Cornea, Public Health Research & Communications.

When Jeff was asked about the decision to bring the event to Nepal, he shared:
“The idea sounded exciting, but honestly, the timeline felt a bit ambitious at first. That said, thanks to everyone’s incredible commitment, we pulled it off—and created something really special. Being there and seeing the impact in person was such a powerful reminder of why we do this work.”

To learn more about KeraLink International and our work, visit www.keralink.org —and don’t forget to check out our newly launched Eyewear Store, where 100% of proceeds support our nonprofit mission at www.keralink.com