March 24, 2024  The World Council of Optometry (WCO) introduced a revolutionary resource aimed at harmonizing the optometry profession and enhancing optometric education globally: the WCO Competency Framework for Optometry. Developed with a vision to define optometry in terms of essential competencies required to engage effectively in the international eyecare agenda, this framework marks a significant milestone in advancing eye health worldwide.

Divided into five essential domains—refractive error, visual function assessment, ocular health and diseases, public health, and professional practice—the framework outlines the competencies expected of optometry graduates. By establishing a minimum level of professional identity across all countries, it ensures consistency in optometric education and practice. Moreover, these competencies are aligned with the World Health Organization (WHO) Eye Care Competencies Framework, further reinforcing their global relevance.