Why is the European Academy needed?
The practice of optometry, optics and the vision sciences is constantly changing. New developments are continually being made in the clinical, scientific and technical knowledge that underpins the work of all practitioners.
At present there is significant variation in the professional delivery and standards for optometric, optical and general eye healthcare across Europe.
The tendency for academics, scientists and educators to work in isolation has been identified as an issue of concern within the European arena.
The Academy's goal is to support the aims of the Bologna declaration: to support harmonisation in the standard and practise of optometry and optics across Europe; to provide a platform for collaboration and co-operation and a forum for life-long learning.
If the profession is to develop effectively and reach its full potential it is critical that practitioners, scientists and educators have a forum that enables them to share ideas, knowledge and their understanding of innovations in practice.
"The Academy is focused on supporting collaborative working and developing effective networks for communciation, dissemination of findings, research and education; these represent key elements that underpin the Academy's contribution to the future progress of research in Europe"
Professor Bernard Gilmartin
Aston University
"The Academy is one of the most exciting things to happen in optometry in Europe for a long time".
Dr Paul Murphy
Cardiff University
Tel: +44 (0) 20 7839 6000 Fax: +44 (0) 20 7839 6800
