Hong Kong: Nepal’s ophthalmology community has earned international recognition at the 41st Asia-Pacific Academy of Ophthalmology (APAO) Congress and the 37th Hong Kong Ophthalmological Symposium held from February 5 to 8 in Hong Kong. During the prestigious gathering of eye specialists from across the Asia-Pacific region and beyond, three Nepali doctors and one leading eye hospital were honored for their outstanding contributions to eye care services, education, and the prevention of blindness.
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| Source: onlinekhabar |
Among the award recipients was renowned vitreoretinal surgeon Dr. Sanyam Bajimaya, who was presented with the APAO Distinguished Service Award. This highly respected award is given to ophthalmologists from APAO member nations who have demonstrated exceptional dedication and made significant contributions to the advancement and strengthening of ophthalmic services within their home countries and throughout the Asia-Pacific region.
Dr. Bajimaya currently serves as the Managing Director of Netra Dham Eye Care Center Pvt. Ltd., Lalitpur. He is also the President of the Nepal Vitreo-Retina Society. Over the years, he has played several key leadership roles within the Nepal Ophthalmic Society, contributing actively to the development of clinical services, professional education, and research in ophthalmology. His efforts have been instrumental in enhancing vitreoretinal care services in Nepal and promoting professional collaboration at both national and international levels.
In addition to individual recognition, Sagarmatha Chaudhary Eye Hospital in Lahan was honored with the APAO Outstanding Service in Prevention of Blindness Award. Established in 1983, the hospital has grown into one of the largest and most respected eye care institutions in the region. With a capacity of 450 beds, it provides comprehensive, affordable, and high-quality eye care services to millions of underprivileged patients from eastern Nepal as well as neighboring areas of India.
Furthermore, Dr. Srijana Adhikari, a pediatric ophthalmologist at the Tilganga Institute of Ophthalmology, received the APAO Achievement Award in recognition of her professional excellence and contributions to pediatric eye care. Her work has been vital in addressing childhood eye diseases and promoting early intervention strategies in Nepal.
Similarly, Dr. Sudha Ranabhat was awarded the Professor Yasuo Tano Travel Grant 2026, a prestigious grant aimed at supporting promising ophthalmologists in advancing their academic and professional exposure at international platforms. The information regarding these recognitions was shared by Dr. Tejashu Singh Malla, General Secretary of the Nepal Ophthalmic Society.
The recognition of Nepali doctors and institutions at such a prominent international forum highlights Nepal’s growing reputation in the field of ophthalmology. Their achievements reflect sustained dedication to improving eye health services, expanding access to quality care, and contributing to global efforts in the prevention of blindness.
