Post Event Report | SYNAPSE e-Symposium

Executive Summary

The second session of the SYNAPSE 2026-27 e-Symposium, organised by Vision Science Academy as part of the World Vision Science Day initiative, successfully brought together students, educators, researchers, clinicians, and vision care professionals from around the world for another enriching interdisciplinary learning experience.

Held virtually on 19th July 2026, the symposium explored the growing role of Artificial Intelligence and emerging technologies in vision sciences, highlighting how digital innovation is transforming clinical practice, research, education, and patient care. The event attracted registrations from 20 different countries, reflecting the expanding global reach of the SYNAPSE platform and its commitment to advancing collaborative learning within the vision science community. 

Figure 1: Outreach of SYNAPSE 2026-27, Session 2

 

Event Overview and Objectives

Detail	Description
Event Name	SYNAPSE | An e-Symposium as part of World Vision Science Day
Host	Vision Science Academy (VSA)
Date & Time	19 July 2026
Format	Virtual Symposium (Zoom)
>Theme	Smart Vision with AI and Technology
Central Topic	Artificial Intelligence in Vision Sciences
Target Audience	Vision Science Students, Professionals, and Enthusiasts worldwide
Primary Goal	To explore how artificial intelligence and emerging technologies are shaping the future of vision sciences through global knowledge exchange and interdisciplinary collaboration.
Knowledge Partner	VTrust Group of Institutions

 

The symposium reinforced Vision Science Academy’s commitment to creating a global platform where innovation, technology, and vision sciences intersect to improve education, research, and clinical practice.

Key Highlights and Speaker Sessions

The symposium had a meticulously planned agenda, expertly hosted by Kristi Sharma, Senior Manager – Advanced Education and Partnerships (VSA) and Program Manager (WVSD). We extend our sincere gratitude to our speakers Dr. Carolyne Naana Yanney and SK Amir Soyel for their highly insightful presentations and an informative panel discussion. The program was anchored by two main presentations:

Speaker: Dr. Carolyne Naana Yanney (Lucentti Eye Center (Knoxxi Health), Ghana)
Topic: AI in Eye Care: The Role of Eye Care Professionals
Summary
Dr. Carolyne’s talk discussed on how AI is being integrated into the clinical workflow, and the role of eye care professionals in effective implementation of AI in day-to-day practice.

 

Speaker: SK Amir Soyel (Orbsway Vision Therapy, India)
Topic: Developing AI-based Eye Care Solutions
Summary:
SK Amir’s talk focused on real-life demonstrations on how AI is utilized to develop eye care solutions, including its use to set up website and applications for eye care enterpreneurs.

 

 

Interactive Sessions and Outcomes

 Panel Discussion: Emerging Technologies in Vision Sciences: Opportunities and Challenges

Following the keynote presentations, both speakers participated in an interactive panel discussion, addressing questions from participants across different countries.

The discussion centred on the future of Artificial Intelligence within vision sciences, ethical considerations surrounding AI adoption, emerging technologies, and opportunities for interdisciplinary collaboration.

Participants actively engaged with the panel, contributing thoughtful questions and sharing perspectives from diverse educational and clinical backgrounds.

Figure 2: A clip from the panel discussion

Acknowledgement to our Knowledge Partner

We thank our Knowledge Partner for the SYNAPSE 2026 series, VTrust Group of Institutions. Their association and support with this event have contributed meaningfully to make this event successful.

 

Reflections from the Leadership

A Message from the Host

“It was an honour to host this inspiring global event and witness experts, professionals, researchers, and students come together to explore the transformative role of AI in Eye Care. A heartfelt thank you to our distinguished speakers and every attendee for making the discussions engaging, insightful, and impactful. Your enthusiasm and participation truly made this session memorable, and I look forward to welcoming you to our future sessions!”

• Kristi Sharma (Senior Manager, VSA | Program Manager – Global Affairs, WVSD)

 

A Message from the Founder

“As we conclude SYNAPSE 2026–27 | Session 2: Smart Vision with AI and Technology, I extend my sincere gratitude to our exceptional speakers, partners, and participants from around the world. The inspiring discussions on AI in Eye Care reaffirmed that the future of vision science lies in collaboration, innovation, and the responsible integration of emerging technologies. Thank you for being part of this journey with Vision Science Academy. Together, we are building a global community committed to advancing eye care through knowledge, research, and innovation.”

• Abhishek Mandal (Founder and CEO, VSA)

 

 Conclusion and Future Outlook

The second edition of the SYNAPSE e-Symposium successfully reinforced the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration, technological innovation, and continuous professional development within vision sciences.

Through engaging presentations, meaningful discussions, and active global participation, the symposium highlighted the growing impact of artificial intelligence in shaping the future of eye care, research, education, and clinical practice.

Vision Science Academy remains committed to expanding SYNAPSE as a leading international platform that connects students, educators, researchers, and professionals through innovative learning experiences.