|
 Dear
Colleagues and Friends,
With less than five months to go, it
gives me great pleasure to welcome you to the 42nd
Asia-Pacific Academy of Ophthalmology (APAO) Congress in
Singapore, March 18–21, 2027.
Earlier issues of
this newsletter have introduced our theme, "The Future
of Ophthalmology", the breadth of our scientific program
and the many opportunities to connect. As Congress Vice
President, I would like to add one thought: the future
we build must ultimately mean better outcomes for the
patients and communities we serve.
Across the
Asia-Pacific, we share many of the same challenges.
Myopia continues to rise among our children, and
diabetic eye disease grows with our aging and urbanizing
populations. Access to timely care remains uneven. In
tackling these issues, Singapore has learned a great
deal from colleagues across the region, from myopia
research to bringing diabetic retinopathy screening into
primary care. APAO 2027 is a chance to continue that
exchange. I hope you will take home ideas that can be
adapted to your own health systems, whatever their size
or resources.
Behind the scenes,
our Local Executive Committee and colleagues from eye
institutions across Singapore are working closely with
the APAO Secretariat to make your visit smooth and
rewarding. Whether this is your first APAO or your
twentieth, we want you to feel at home.
I especially
encourage younger colleagues to take part fully. Present
your work, ask questions and introduce yourselves to
faculty. Some of the most valuable collaborations begin
with a conversation in the corridor.
Beyond the
rigorous academic exchanges spanning 19 subspecialties,
we hope you take full advantage of our exciting social
programs to network, renew lifelong professional
friendships, and spark new global collaborations. In
addition, we invite you to experience Singapore’s unique
charm as a captivating city in nature. As a vibrant,
safe, and easily walkable global hub, the city
seamlessly connects our convention venue to historic
heritage districts, exceptional culinary experiences,
and stunning contemporary architecture, offering an
inspiring backdrop for after-hours reflection and
networking.
We look forward to
welcoming you to Singapore as we continue to work
together to shape the future of eye care.
 Warmest
regards,
Gavin TAN
Congress Vice-President,
APAO 2027 Local Executive Committee
President, College
of Ophthalmologists,
Academy of Medicine, Singapore |
