 BSc BOptom OD MPH, Africa Chair of the International Agency for the Prevention of Blindness (IAPB)
and Global Programmes Director of the International Centre for Eyecare Education (ICEE)
Professor Kovin Naidoo is an academic, former anti-apartheid activist and political prisoner, optometrist and an internationally celebrated public health leader. Prof Naidoo is a Fulbright Scholar and was elected an Ashoka Fellow in 2006 for his social entrepreneurial efforts in addressing the needs of those less privileged. He was awarded a Doctorate of Optometry from the Pennsylvania College of Optometry, was African Optometrist of the Year, then International Optometrist of the Year in 2007.
Like so many speakers for the Brien Holden Lecture Series, Professor Naidoo’s accomplishments are too many to list. Among them he is a member of the World Council of Optometry Governing Board; is an active participant in the World Health Organization Refractive Error Working Group; a member of the South African National Prevention of Blindness Committee; and of the medical committee of the National Bureau for the Prevention of Blindness. Professor Naidoo is founder and Chair of the KwaZulu-Natal Eye Care Coalition which is establishing cataract surgical services in the public sector.
Abstract
The global eye care movement is undergoing a paradigm shift from a disease approach to eye care provision and blindness prevention to a systems approach. The non-profit sector in particular has had to reassess its current strategies and develop appropriate advocacy efforts to generate a buy-in from other sectors, particularly governments.
This presentation outlines some of the strategies that incorporate a comprehensive health care approach and a broader development shift. The human resource, infrastructure, service delivery, research and advocacy aspects will be discussed.
It will also address public health and eye care in general, blindness prevention efforts, the strategies that encompass a systems approach to eye care service, the future challenges and needs and appropriate strategies that meet global eye care needs. |
