In a special convocation held on January 10, 2023, at Desh Bhagat University, Mandi Gobindgarh, 38 graduates of the Bachelor of Ophthalmic Medical Science (BOMS) programme were awarded degrees. The honourable Chancellor of the University, Dr. Zora Singh, shared that in order to combat eye-related ailments and the blindness rate in rural India, the Government of India started the National Programme for Control of Blindness (NPCB) in the year 1978. For the same purpose, a two-year Diploma of Ophthalmic Assistant was launched in various Government Medical Colleges across the country after completion of a +2 with medical subjects. These trained ophthalmic assistants provided primary eye care services to the rural population and were successful in reducing the rate of blindness in the rural population.

Chancellor Dr. Zora Singh further emphasized the role of Desh Bhagat University in enhancing the professional qualification of these diploma holders. He stated that, in response to societal needs, DBU launched the Bachelor of Ophthalmic Medical Science Lateral Entry Degree Program in 2018 for these Diploma Holders.

Dr. Tajinder Kaur, the university’s respected Pro Chancellor, praised the Bachelor of Ophthalmic Graduates and encouraged them to provide quality eye care services in the country’s towns and villages. She further added that so far, 175 ophthalmic assistants have been awarded BOMS degrees in four different batches by Desh Bhagat University.

The convocation ceremony was meticulously planned and organized by Director (FIIP) Mr. Surinderpal Kapoor and Director Media, Dr. Surjeet Patheja, of the university.