EIVOC 2025: A Grand Convergence of Knowledge and Vision

The fourth edition of the Elite School of Optometry’s International Vision and Optometry Conference (EIVOC) was held after a remarkable gap of ten years at the Chennai Trade Center from 15th to 17th August 2025. More than just an event, this much awaited congregation was a celebration of knowledge, vision, and legacy, reaffirming the institution’s mission to bring Optometry—the arithmetic, art, and science of light and vision—into the forefront of academia, fulfilling the cherished dream of its founding fathers.

The conference commenced with the auspicious lighting of the lamp, symbolizing wisdom and enlightenment by Dr. P. P. Santanam, Dr. Sumathi Narayanan, Dr Krishnakumar, Dr. Anuradha N, Dr. Rashima A and the entire organising team.

The Inauguration ceremony was graced by the Chief Guest, Mr. Krishnamachari Srikkanth, the architect of India’s historic 1983 World Cup victory and captain of the 1985 World Championship-winning team, distinguished guests, eminent academicians, industry leaders, and a spirited gathering of students and practitioners, setting the perfect tone for the three-day event. The session began with an invocation rendered by Ms. Shwetha Mohanakrishnan, musician and music teacher at Omega School International, Chennai.

Reflections on the glorious history of the institution, EIVOC’s vision, and its significance since inception was shared by Dr. T. S. Surendran (Chairman, Medical Research Foundation). Professor Vasudevan Lakshminarayan crafted the journey of ESO with memories of his letters to our Chief and the foundation of ESO in early 80’s. The driving force behind the conference, Dr. Anuradha N., Principal, ESO and Chairperson unveiled this year’s theme — “Optometrists Shaping the Future of Ophthalmic Care” — emphasizing the vital role of training quality optometrists to lead the future of eye care in India.

Mr. Krishnamachari Srikkanth, delivered an inspiring address. He highlighted the importance of vision and adaptability across professions and applauded ESO’s pioneering initiative in establishing ESO-SOL. He also launched the ESO – Sports Optometry Lab (ESO-SOL): A pioneering initiative designed to enhance visual performance and eye–hand coordination in athletes, paving the way for excellence in sports vision care.

With key members of Sankara Nethralaya / Elite School of Optometry, Dr Girish Shiva Rao (President Medical Research Foundation), Dr Ronnie George (President Vision Research Foundation), Dr Pradeep S (Director Academics), Dr PP Santanam (Former Principal of ESO), Mr Ramachandran P (Business Advisor-Eyewear & Fellow Institute of Directors), Dr Rashima A (Scientific Chair of EIVOC 2025), Dr Anuradha N listed the landmark achievements of ESO, Release of 10 undergraduate textbooks in optometry: A historic contribution that will serve as a foundation for future generations of students and the launch of three digital innovations: The Integrated Optics Module Website, The Optometric Essentials App, The Digital Psychophysics Lab.

EIVOC 2025 recorded a total of 2,027 registrations, comprising:

• 872 regular participants
• 989 undergraduate students
• 159 postgraduate students

In addition, the presence of sponsors, exhibitors, invited speakers, and the ever-enthusiastic ESO student community contributed to a vibrant blend of wisdom, experience, and youthful energy, making this edition truly memorable.

Scientific Program

The conference featured a robust and diverse academic program, enriched by the participation of 17 international speakers and 43 experts from across India. The highlights included:

• 76 scientific talks delivered across 11 symposiums
• 3 panel discussions
• 15 workshops

The research participation was equally impressive, with:

• 345 abstracts received
• 139 free paper presentations
• 183 posters, presented across 15 sessions

EIVOC 2025 was a grand success, blending academic excellence with cultural vibrancy and visionary milestones. It not only celebrated optometry’s growth in India but also paved the way for future advancements, true to its theme of “Optometrists Shaping the Future of Ophthalmic Care.” The seamless organization and high level of participation underscored the tireless efforts of the Elite School of Optometry’s team, led by Dr. Anuradha N., marking this edition as a milestone in the history of EIVOC.

Delegates of EIVOC 2025 during Closing Ceremony

Lighting of Lamp at EIVOC 2025

Launch of Textbooks and ESO Sports Optometry Lab during Inaugural Event

Speakers of EIVOC 2025

Launch of GLOW India Chapter