News

Vision Aid Overseas has appointed a new International Programme Director to lead its overseas programmes and help drive its sustainable agenda in its seven partner countries in Africa. Imran Khan joins the head office team in Crawley and will be working closely with Vision Aid Overseas’ professional volunteers.

Imran brings a wealth of optometric, education, and public health experience to the role, having  initially graduated as a Doctor of Optometry from the Pennsylvania College of Optometry in 2002 and later, completing a Masters in Public Health from the London School of Hygiene and  Tropical Medicine in 2010. Imran also became a Fellow of the American Academy of Optometry (FAAO) in November of the same year.

With a keen interest in global health development, Imran has been involved in humanitarian eye care emphasising strengthening of eye care systems through human resource development. He has worked with a number of organizations including Volunteer Optometric Services to Humanity (VOSH), Unite for Sight, the Fred Hollows Foundation and the International Centre for Eyecare Education (ICEE).   In addition, he has held several academic faculty positions, and currently holds an appointment in the Department of Public Health at Salus University.  He continues to lecture internationally on a variety of subjects related to public health eye care and clinical practice.

‘I am delighted to have the opportunity to join an eye care organisation that has human resource development at the centre of its operations,’ Imran said. ‘I really like Vision Aid Overseas’ Vision Centre concept and look forward to being part of a team which has such a long term sustainable approach.’

Dr Natalie Briggs, Chief Executive of Vision Aid Overseas, said that she was very excited to be welcoming Imran to the team. ‘Imran is extremely well placed to help us drive our sustainable programme operations overseas.  10% of the world’s population continue to be disabled or disadvantaged by poor eyesight and we have a great deal to do to prioritise refractive services in our partner countries. Imran will be leading a professional team working internationally to transform access to eye care.’