Context and Background
In response to the growing demand for specialized pediatric vision care across the Caribbean, the Optometry Unit at The University of the West Indies (UWI), in collaboration with the New England College of Optometry (NECO), is proud to launch the Certificate of Advanced Study in Pediatric Eyecare.
This 15-week blended course is designed for licensed optometrists seeking to expand their skills in diagnosing and managing pediatric ocular conditions. The course places strong emphasis on binocular vision disorders, including amblyopia and strabismus, and equips participants with evidence-based knowledge and vision therapy techniques to address the complex needs of young patients.
Through a combination of online modules and in-person labs, this course fosters practical skills and clinical confidence in delivering high-quality pediatric eyecare.
Learning Outcomes for the Course
- Prescribe appropriate optical aids for optimal vision correction
- Analyze the principles, epidemiology, and incidence of pediatric ocular conditions
- Conduct comprehensive pediatric vision examinations across various age groups
- Manage pediatric-related ocular diseases
- Educate patients and families on treatment options
- Interpret results from pediatric ocular assessments for clinical decision-making
Key Take-Aways
- Advanced knowledge of binocular vision disorders and pediatric disease management
- Practical exposure to vision therapy and visual processing strategies
- Diagnostic skills in pediatric assessments and early intervention approaches
- Enhanced clinical decision-making in the treatment of strabismus, amblyopia, and refractive errors
- Greater confidence in patient and family education and care coordination
Key Topics
Online (Synchronous) Modules:
- Module 1: Fundamentals of Pediatric Optometry – 4 hours
- Module 2: Diagnosis and Treatment of Binocular Vision Disorders – 16 hours
- Module 3: Understanding Vision Therapy and Processing – 8 hours
- Module 4: Amblyopia and Strabismus: From Basic to Advanced Management – 16 hours
- Module 5: Nystagmus – 5 hours
Face-to-Face Modules (Labs & Lectures):
- Module 6: Learning-Related Visual Disorders and Refractive Errors – 8 hours
- Module 7: Pediatric Ocular Diseases – 6 hours
- Workshop: Applied Practice – 12 hours
The Facilitators
Dr. Kingsley Ekemiri
Head, Optometry Unit, Faculty of Medical Sciences,
The UWI
Dr. Kingsley Kene Ekemiri is a Lecturer at The University of the West Indies (UWI), St. Augustine, specializing in optometry education, clinical training, and pediatric eye care. He holds a Doctor of Optometry, a Master of Public Health, and a Diploma in Low Vision, combining clinical expertise with public health insight.
He recently co-developed the Certificate of Advanced Study in Pediatric Eyecare—a collaborative short course between UWI and the New England College of Optometry (NECO)—to strengthen pediatric vision care in the Caribbean.
Dr. Ekemiri has authored over 15 peer-reviewed publications on glaucoma, digital eye strain, and pediatric vision health. He supervises students at the UWI-Couva Eye Clinic, delivers low vision and pediatric care, and leads outreach in underserved communities. An active researcher and educator, he is committed to advancing optometric education, pediatric eyecare, and public health advocacy across the region.
Dr. Bina Patel
NECO Program Lead
Bina Patel received her Doctor of Optometry degree from Indiana University, Bloomington, Indiana and completed her residency program at Northeastern State University College of Optometry, Tahlequah, Oklahoma.
She is a full-time faculty member of the Department of Biomedical Science and Disease at The New England College of Optometry and the Director of International Programs. She has helped develop postgraduate educational programs in optometry internationally.
She is the instructor of record for several courses at the college with an emphasis in primary eye care and the ocular disease tract, including diagnostic technique, and is certified as an image reader at the Joslin Diabetes Center’s Beetham Eye Institute.
Dr. Joanne Caruso
NECO Program Lead II
Dr. Joanne Caruso is an Adjunct Associate Professor, a clinical preceptor to 3rd and 4th-year optometry students at Neighborhood Health Center in East Boston, MA, and Coordinator of International Programs in Europe and Israel at the New England College of Optometry.
She has worked with the University of the West Indies in Trinidad and Tobago since 2024 on Certificates of Advanced Study and has been a faculty member at NECO since 1986. Dr. Caruso also maintains a private practice in Watertown, MA since 1985.
Her clinical specialties include cataracts, postoperative care, ocular tumors, and ocular manifestations of neurological conditions. She has authored publications including two clinical cases featured in Clinical Cases in Eye Care, and has presented at the American Academy of Optometry and the World Council of Optometry.
Dr. Caruso earned her Doctor of Optometry from NECO in 1985, completed a Clinical Teaching Fellowship in Primary Care Optometry, and has held leadership roles within the Massachusetts Society of Optometrists (MSO). She currently chairs the MSO Continuing Education Committee.
Certificate Awarded
Participants will receive a Certificate of Proficiency with Continuing Education Units (CEUs).
Pricing Information
- Early Bird Fee: TT$9,000 (March 24 – April 18, 2025)
- Late Registration Fee: TT$10,000 (April 19 – April 24, 2025)
Entry Requirement: BSc Optometry and Licensure
When and Where
The course is hosted by the Optometry Unit, Faculty of Medical Sciences, The University of the West Indies. It is delivered in a blended format, combining online synchronous modules and in-person sessions.
Start Date: May 24th, 2025
Duration: 15 Weeks
Mode: Blended (Online + Face-to-Face)
Registration closes: April 24th, 2025
For more information, contact sta-fms_optmpgcert@sta.uwi.edu