Swiss Eye Week 2026 took place from 12 to 16 January 2026 at the Hotel Seepark in Thun and represented one of the most important structured educational meetings for assistant doctors’ ophthalmology training in Switzerland. Organised under the auspices of the Swiss Society of Ophthalmology, Swiss Eye Week 2026 combined a Basic Science Course and a Clinical Science Course, offering a comprehensive, practice-oriented curriculum spanning the full breadth of ophthalmology. Swiss Eye Week 2026 ophthalmology education is structured to support residents and specialists through evidence-based teaching and clearly defined learning objectives.
ELZA faculty contribution at Swiss Eye Week 2026
At this year’s meeting, Prof Farhad Hafezi MD PhD FARVO, Medical Director of the ELZA Institute, was invited as faculty member to contribute to both the Basic Science Course and the Clinical Science Course. His participation reflected a sustained commitment to postgraduate teaching and to the structured transmission of evidence-based knowledge to ophthalmologists in training.
Basic Science Course teaching on conjunctiva and cornea
Within the Basic Science Course, Prof Hafezi lectured on conjunctiva and cornea, a foundational topic for residents in the early stages of training. The session was embedded in a curriculum addressing core anatomical, physiological, and pathological principles, providing the scientific framework required for later clinical decision-making. Emphasis was placed on clarity, reproducibility, and the translation of basic science concepts into clinically relevant understanding.
Clinical Science Course lecture on therapeutic refractive surgery
In the Clinical Science Course, Prof Hafezi delivered a dedicated lecture on therapeutic refractive surgery. This session addressed more advanced trainees and focused on contemporary refractive treatment strategies, including their indications, limitations, and long-term implications. Particular attention was given to the interface between refractive surgery, corneal biomechanics, and corneal pathology.
Teaching state-of-the-art CXL and ectasia rehabilitation
Through these contributions, Swiss Eye Week 2026 ophthalmology education included ELZA-led teaching on the state-of-the-art in CXL and ectasia-related vision rehabilitation. The lectures reflected current evidence and clinical experience in the management of keratoconus and other ectatic corneal diseases, highlighting the importance of individualized treatment strategies and long-term visual rehabilitation.
Why Swiss Eye Week matters for training in Switzerland
Swiss Eye Week is designed explicitly as a teaching meeting rather than a traditional congress. Parallel courses are offered throughout the week, with clearly defined learning objectives and a strong emphasis on structured progression. This format distinguishes Swiss Eye Week from larger international meetings and has established it as a cornerstone of ophthalmology training in Switzerland.
Conclusion
We, at ELZA, are proud to participate in Swiss Eye Week 2026, as it shows our commitment to the professional education of doctors throughout Switzerland. ELZA is proud to be at the forefront of shaping the evidence-based ophthalmic education and training that underpins high-quality eyecare in Switzerland.