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College Wins Bid To Host World Secretariat
College Wins Bid To Host World Secretariat
27 June 2008
The World Council of Optometry (WCO) announced today that the UK’s College of Optometrists has successfully won the bid to host its secretariat and management services. From 1 July 2008, the College will provide the worldwide base for both the WCO and its charitable arm the World Optometry Foundation (WOF).
Formed in 1995, the WCO is an international optometric association representing over 200,000 optometrists from 75 member organisations in 40 countries. The WCO aims to facilitate the enhancement and development of eye and vision care worldwide through education, humanitarian outreach and policy development, and the WCO’s goals are closely aligned with the College’s own objectives.
Commenting on the announcement, Dr Rob Hogan, President of the College of Optometrists said:
“We are delighted to have been awarded the contract to provide the WCO secretariat. This is a significant achievement, of which the College team are justifiably proud. It demonstrates that the College is held in high regard internationally and provides a real opportunity for us to enhance the UK’s international reputation and voice, and to strengthen our relations with the global optometric community. We look forward to working closely with the WCO and its stakeholders over the next three years to ensure we deliver a successful and lasting legacy.”
Developing the College’s international relations is a key element of the College Council’s three year strategic plan. The award of this contract will lead to significant benefits for College Members as it works to develop a better understanding of international methods of practice, increases and enhances its knowledge base and benefits from the opportunity to influence policy and practice globally. Dr Robert Chappell, President of the WCO explained:
“In working together there will be benefits for both organisations. As well as helping to improve the quality and availability of eye and vision care worldwide the College of Optometrists will gain a unique opportunity to enhance its knowledge, relationship and recognition within the global optometric and public health community.”
The secretariat was awarded following a competitive six way bid. Dr Chappell added: “The WCO is returning “home” to the United Kingdom. The College’s predecessor, the British Optical Association housed and managed the International Optometric League from when it was established in 1927 until its dissolution in 1993. After a very competitive bidding process the WCO is delighted to award the secretariat to the College of Optometrists. The College demonstrated a very clear understanding of the WCO’s needs and key priorities moving forward and I look forward to working with them over the coming years”.