CSR addressing shortage of trained paramedics in eye care sector
In a remarkable initiative to address the shortage of trained paramedics in the eye care sector, ITC Limited’s Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) programme has launched a project called ‘Certified Ophthalmic Paramedic (COP)’. This innovative programme aims to provide career opportunities for young girls in hospitals, clinics, and optical stores, while also supporting eye surgeries for the underprivileged.
The shortage of trained paramedics in the eye care sector is a pressing concern globally. The increasing demand for eye care services has led to a shortage of skilled professionals, making it challenging for hospitals and clinics to provide quality care to patients. In India, the situation is particularly dire, with a significant shortage of ophthalmic paramedics in rural areas.
To address this issue, ITC Limited’s CSR programme has partnered with a Charitable Eye Hospital in Saharanpur, Uttar Pradesh, to launch the COP project. The project offers a 2-year course to 12th-pass girls, providing them with comprehensive training in ophthalmic care. The course covers topics such as eye anatomy, physiology, and pathology, as well as clinical skills and practical training.
The COP project is designed to equip young girls with the necessary skills and knowledge to take up roles in hospitals, clinics, and optical stores. Upon completion of the course, the trained paramedics will be able to assist ophthalmologists, perform basic eye exams, and provide pre- and post-operative care to patients.
One of the unique features of the COP project is its focus on empowering young girls from underprivileged backgrounds. The project aims to provide these girls with a career opportunity that is both challenging and rewarding, allowing them to break the cycle of poverty and become financially independent.
The impact of the COP project extends beyond just providing career opportunities to young girls. The project also aims to improve access to eye care services for the underprivileged. The Charitable Eye Hospital, where the COP project is being implemented, provides free eye surgeries to patients from low-income backgrounds. The trained paramedics will play a crucial role in supporting these surgeries, ensuring that patients receive quality care and improving their chances of a successful recovery.
The COP project is a shining example of ITC Limited’s commitment to Corporate Social Responsibility. The company’s CSR programme has been recognized for its innovative approach to addressing social and environmental issues. In its latest CSR report, ITC Limited highlighted the COP project as one of its key initiatives, demonstrating the company’s commitment to making a positive impact on society.
The COP project is not only a testament to ITC Limited’s commitment to CSR but also a beacon of hope for young girls from underprivileged backgrounds. The project provides them with a chance to build a career in a field that is both challenging and rewarding, while also contributing to the betterment of society.
In conclusion, ITC Limited’s CSR programme has launched a groundbreaking initiative to address the shortage of trained paramedics in the eye care sector. The COP project offers a 2-year course to 12th-pass girls, providing them with comprehensive training in ophthalmic care. The project not only provides career opportunities to young girls but also supports eye surgeries for the underprivileged. As a model CSR project, the COP initiative demonstrates ITC Limited’s commitment to making a positive impact on society.
Source: https://thecsrjournal.in/complete-csr-report-itc-limited/
