Eye Health Bureau expands training capacity as 11 interns complete programme

The Abia State Government has increased stipends for optometry interns and doubled the number of internship slots as part of efforts to strengthen healthcare workforce development in the state.

The decision follows the successful completion of an 11-member optometry internship programme at the Abia State Eye Health Management Bureau.

The announcement was made during a combined send-forth ceremony for outgoing interns and a reception for newly admitted trainees. Speaking at the event, the Bureau’s Administrator, Dr. Mrs. Betty Emeka Obasi, said the reforms reflect ongoing improvements in the state’s health sector under the current administration.

She noted that, in the past, optometry interns in the state neither received stipends nor formal recognition at the end of their training. According to her, the new framework ensures that interns are properly supported and professionally prepared.

A statement issued on Thursday by Chioma Mpama, Information Officer II at the bureau, explained that the outgoing interns were selected strictly on merit and underwent intensive academic and clinical training. The programme included weekly academic sessions, monthly evaluations, rotations across all eye clinic units, and participation in community outreach activities.

Dr. Obasi expressed confidence that the graduates of the programme are now equipped to handle ophthalmic equipment and manage clinics independently.

As part of the expansion, she announced that the number of interns admitted per cycle will be doubled, while stipends for the new intake will exceed those paid to the previous batch.

Three members of the outgoing group were named Outstanding Interns and will be retained by the bureau pending completion of their National Youth Service, a move officials say is aimed at preserving top talent within the state system.

Delivering a vote of thanks on behalf of the outgoing interns, Dr. Chinedu Agbayim commended the bureau’s leadership for promoting professionalism, punctuality, and accountability. He also praised senior staff for their mentorship, adding that the training has equipped participants to establish and manage eye care clinics.

The event featured interactive activities and a question-and-answer session, giving both outgoing and incoming interns an opportunity to exchange experiences and celebrate the programme’s milestones.

Officials say the initiative underscores the government’s continued investment in healthcare delivery in Abia State and its commitment to building a skilled eye care workforce.