The regional eye care training forms part of the second phase of the Qatar Creating Vision initiative, which was established in 2016. Virtual and theoretical learning opportunities for ophthalmologists and nurses, will be provided via Orbis’s award-winning platform Cybersight, prior to in-person simulation training. This will be delivered by Orbis’s leading medical volunteers and staff on board their fully accredited teaching facility, the Flying Eye Hospital.

Simulation training provides vital practice to medical professionals in a controlled setting. Simulation devices, such as virtual reality, artificial eyes, and life-like manikins – let complex procedures be broken down into smaller parts, allowing doctors to practice each step as many times as they need.

Travel and in-country costs will be covered for all selected participants and there are only a limited number of places available. Endorsed by Qatar's Ministry of Public Health, this is a unique opportunity for participants to train on state-of-the-art equipment and be exposed to multiple sub-specialities, as well as attend lectures and workshops.

Qatar Fund for Development, Qatar Charity and Orbis are hosting a five-day professional development programme, open to women in ophthalmology and nursing, from countries receiving humanitarian support from Qatar Fund for Development.