Training Programmes for Ophthalmologists
In their quest for practical experiences and learning of innovative techniques in surgery, Ophthalmologists are on the look out for short term specialised training courses to help update their skills. With a strong base in community ophthalmology, combined with state-of-the-art facilities and qualified Ophthalmologists, Project Drishti has been running a teaching and training programme for Ophthalmologists in Small Incision Cataract Surgeries (SICS) since 2001. The Phaco-emulsification training programme was initiated in the year 2004. Till date, over a 100 trainees have undergone training in Small Incision Cataract Surgeries and 12 trainees in Phaco-emulsification, majority of them females. 

Objectives of the teaching and training programmes:
- Training and enhancing the capabilities of qualified Ophthalmologists through short term certification courses in Small Incision Cataract Surgeries and Phaco-emulsification.

- To offer state-of-the-art facilities for training under the guidance of qualified surgeons.

- To create a platform for doctors especially those from rural areas and those with teaching experience to keep abreast of the latest developments in medical technology.

- To train doctors who will in turn reach out to many more people with blindness in both rural and urban areas.

Representation of Trainees
Trainees are not just restricted to doctors from urban areas. 24% of trainees comprised of those from the rural areas. Teaching faculties from medical colleges have also benefited by this programme. 26% of the trainees have been from teaching backgrounds.

The SICS/ Phaco- emulsification-training programme is held over 15 days and candidates are taught the surgeries in a stepwise manner under the guidance of trained supervisors. Trainees are allowed the facility of video recording their surgeries. This gives them an opportunity to record their cases and present them for discussions.