Evaluation of the Basic Training Program at the School of Ophthalmic Technology

Background: Training and development are vital in Human Resource management. The School of Ophthalmic Technology offers diploma-level training in Sri Lanka, and the Ministry of Health collaborates to streamline the program.Objective: To Evaluate ophthalmic technology training at the School of Ophthalmic Technology to improve the quality of eye care and health outcomes.Methods: The study conducted at the National Eye Hospital from December 2023 to January 2024. Both qualitative and quantitative research methods were used. The sample population involved four trainers and 24 trainees. The methodology included assessments from both trainees and trainers, facility surveys, document reviews, and key informant interviews. The data was analysed using SPSS.Results: The study has identified several issues related to trainees, including communication difficulties with non-academic staff, the unavailability of dining room facilities, a lack of hands-on experience with OCT (Ocular Coherence Tomography) and FFA (Fluorescein Fundus Angiography), a lack of clarity about the curriculum/syllabus, unavailability of past papers, and a majority of trainees failing in the main exams.Conclusion: To address trainee issues, it is crucial to update the curriculum to align with the current requirements of the clinical field. The evaluation process for students should also be scrutinized. Moreover, students should have easy access to past papers and curriculum details. The hospital administration must take measures to support the trainees whenever necessary.