Community eye health module in West Africa: the trainee ophthalmologists perspectives

Training programmes require regular evaluation both by the organisers and the trainees.

To ascertain the perspectives of trainee Ophthalmologists about a Community Eye Health (CEH) module in West Africa.

A cross sectional survey of trainee ophthalmologists attending CEH course in 2006, using structured self-administered questionnaires was carried out. Information sought through the questionnaire included age, sex designation, training stage and suggestion about the training programme.

Twenty-three (85%) believed that the CEH programme was very relevant to Ophthalmology, 20 (74%), decried inadequate sponsorship, 20(74%) wanted module duration reduced, 18 (67%) rated resource persons good, while 23 (85%) wanted MSc (CEH) introduced in West Africa. In addition, the trainees rated CEH module organization good 14 (52%), viewed course content adequate 16 (59%). Regarding opinion on registration fees, 15 (56%), felt it was quite acceptable, and seven(26%) felt it was expensive. Improvement was suggested in the areas of accommodation, lecture schedule, kitchen schedule as well as of course manual.

Most of the trainees believe CEH is important to Ophthalmology, rate most of the resource persons as being good, want course duration reduced, decry inadequate sponsorship and wanted MSc (CEH) programme introduced in West Africa. Improvements in areas like accommodation, feeding, delivery of module manual and lecture schedule are suggested.