On August 21, 2025, the graduation ceremony for the International Training Program on Ophthalmic Technology for Belt and Road Countries took place at the Translational Medicine Complex of PUMCH. Sponsored by the Ministry of Commerce and organized by PUMCH, the program brought together 17 ophthalmic professionals from Zimbabwe, Gambia, Tanzania, Lesotho, Thailand and other nations, who completed an intensive and productive 14-day training. PUMCH has been advancing international medical cooperation not only for improving healthcare to patients but also for training the medical professionals. Such training programs empower local medical professionals, creating lasting impact on a wider scope.
The training focused on cutting-edge ophthalmic techniques and hands-on clinical work. "We tailored the curriculum to each participant's professional background and seniority", said Dr. Yu Weihong, Director of Ophthalmology. Senior retinal specialists received one-on-one individualized mentorship from leading professors, focusing on complex cases and application of advanced techniques; nursing participants were mentored in clinical wards to enhance their hands-on skills.
The first week featured intensive and advanced microsurgery training in advanced wet lab facilities, with surgical experts providing hands-on instruction. Participants mastered essential techniques through systematic training in phacoemulsification cataract surgery, vitrectomy, and other core procedures. During the second week, they transitioned to ophthalmology clinics for applying the knowledge previously acquired to real-world patient care. Nine experts from different departments delivered targeted lectures and led interactive discussions, deepening participants' understanding of comprehensive patient management.
Participants also attended the 2025 Beijing Ophthalmology Conference and "Belt and Road" Ophthalmology Alliance Academic Meeting, and toured Tianjin Medical University and Tianjin Eye Hospital, which expanded their academic horizons.
Amid the intensive technical training, participants took the time to visit the Temple of Heaven, immersing themselves in Chinese culture. When staff learned that a Lesotho participant’s birthday was approaching, they organized a surprise celebration with cake and gifts—a touching moment that embodied the cross-cultural friendships forged through this international program.
"This program enhanced my surgical skills and showed me the professionalism and compassion of Chinese physicians. I'm taking this knowledge and this spirit back home to help more patients", said trainee representative Dr. Choeng Jirawison from Bangkok Hospital Chiang Mai, Thailand, as he affectionately recounted the experience at PUMCH.
"This training is a concrete step by China in fulfilling its commitment to 'Belt and Road' health cooperation and demonstrates Chinese expertise and organizational capabilities in the field of ophthalmology", remarked Xu Kai, Deputy Dean of the Academy of International Business Officials (AIBO) under the Ministry of Commerce. He encouraged the participants to bring the expertise gained in China, particularly the advanced techniques from PUMCH, back to their home countries to help improve local eye care and contribute to a shared future of global health.
The ceremony included representatives from PUMCH's International Collaboration Office, core members of the ophthalmology team, and relevant staff from the Academy for International Business Officials of the Ministry of Commerce.
Written by the Department of Ophthalmology and the Publicity Department
Pictures courtesy of Sun Liang, Dong Jingge and the Department of Ophthalmology
Edited by Wang Jingxia
Chief editor Duan Wenli
Supervised by Wu Peixin