The program ‘Ophthalmology research in low- and middle-income countries’ was launched successfully. We received diverse and interesting project applications from all over the world. With a runtime from 2021 to 2025 and a total budget of CHF 10 million, the program will support scientific projects and structural improvements.
The program will run from 2021 to 2025 and has one yearly call for proposals. It aims to foster ophthalmology research in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) and will support scientific projects and institutional developments (as in research capacity building) with a total budget of CHF 10 million.
For the first call for proposals in 2021, we received 30 applications which were submitted by research groups from all continents: 54% from Asia, 25% from Africa, 14% from South America and 7% from the Middle East. Six applications have been approved by the board and can be viewed on the list of approved projects.
The foundation board took its decisions with the support of a scientific advisory committee. The nine committee members have expertise in clinical ophthalmology, molecular genetics, innovation management, ophthalmology research in LMICs and NGO working experience in the field of eye care in LMICs. The committee includes members from Switzerland, UK, India, Africa and South America.
The second call for proposals will be announced in the beginning of March on our website – as well as on Twitter and LinkedIn.
