The School of Optometry and Vision Science (SOVS) at the University of Cape Coast (UCC) held its Staff-Student Consultative Meeting on Monday, 13th February 2025, at Auditorium 900 (CALC). The meeting provided an opportunity for students and faculty to engage in discussions aimed at fostering a conducive academic environment.

Opening Session The meeting, chaired by the Founding Dean, Prof. Stephen Ocansey, commenced with a prayer, after which he welcomed faculty, staff, and the 276 students in attendance. In his opening remarks, he commended both faculty and students for their commitment to academic excellence and highlighted ongoing efforts to improve teaching, clinical training, and infrastructure.

Updates on Academic Calendar and School Formation The Chair addressed concerns regarding the academic calendar, noting that the University was working towards synchronizing schedules post-COVID-19. He also announced that SOVS was officially approved by the UCC Academic Board on April 2, 2024, and had undergone a final inspection by the Ghana Tertiary Education Commission on January 30, 2025.

SOVS is now structured into three departments:

• Department of Clinical Optometry – Specializing in patient care and postgraduate programs.
• Department of Ophthalmic Sciences – Focusing on optics and dispensing opticianry.
• Department of Vision Science – Dedicated to research and postgraduate training.

Enhancing Teaching and Clinical Experience To improve clinical training, SOVS is investing in specialized clinics, procuring new equipment, and expanding clinical training facilities through partnerships with the Ghana Health Service and international institutions.

Departmental Fees Adjustment One of the key discussions centered on the need to adjust departmental charges to reflect the demands of clinical training in the Doctor of Optometry (OD) program. Following consultations with student leaders, it was agreed that:

• Departmental fees will increase to GHC 2,000 per annum from the 2025/2026 academic year for continuing students.
• Fresh students from the 2024/2025 academic year will pay GHC 2,500 as part of their admission agreement.
• The changes were unanimously accepted by students present at the meeting.

Student Concerns and Resolutions Students raised concerns about lecture hall allocations, accommodation, and examination procedures. In response:

• The School will explore options to secure additional lecture theatres.
• The possibility of allocating the Superannuation Hall for optometry students is under review.
• Students were reminded to adhere to exam regulations and maintain proper records of their academic progress.

Upcoming Events The Dean assured students that the maiden White Coat Ceremony, alongside the first-ever Alumni Homecoming, will be held within the 2024/2025 academic year.

Closure The meeting concluded with an assurance from management to continue fostering open dialogue with students. Prof. Ocansey expressed appreciation for the active participation of students and faculty, reaffirming the School’s commitment to academic and professional excellence.

SOVS remains committed to creating an environment that supports quality optometric education and clinical training at UCC.