Description of the Idea:

The AEA Innovation Lecture is a prestigious new session to be held annually as part of the Arab Eye Academy International Conference. It aims to spotlight groundbreaking innovations, original research, or impactful contributions in ophthalmology led by Arab ophthalmologists worldwide.

This inspiring session will showcase three selected innovators, each delivering a concise 10-minute talk on their innovation, idea, or impactful achievement. The session will culminate in honoring the AEA Innovator of the Year, who will be presented as the AEA Innovation Lecturer 2025—a figure who exemplifies creativity, influence, and excellence in the field.

The goal is to cultivate a culture of innovation, elevate emerging voices, and connect visionaries across the Arab ophthalmic community.

🗓️ Timeline:

  • 1 July, 2025 : First official announcement and opening of nominations
  • 21 September, 2025 : Closure of nomination submissions
  • 1 October, 2025 : Final announcement of the 3 speakers + AEA Innovation Lecturer 2025
  • 12 December, 2025 : AEA Innovation Lecture 2025 session in the Main Hall

Nomination Specifications for AEA Innovation Lecture 2025

Who Can Be Nominated?

  • Any Arab ophthalmologist, whether based in an Arab country or part of the Arab diaspora worldwide.
  • Self-nominations and peer nominations are both accepted.

Eligibility Criteria for Innovation Submission:

  1. The innovation must be directly related to ophthalmology, whether clinical, surgical, educational, or research-based.
  2. The innovation must be implemented or in an advanced stage of execution, not just a theoretical idea.
  3. The work should demonstrate originality and creativity, addressing a real challenge or providing a unique advancement in ophthalmic practice or education.
  4. There should be measurable or documentable impact, whether on a local, regional, or international scale.

Required Documents for Nomination:

  1. Brief Innovation Summary (PDF, max 2 pages) including:
    • Description of the innovation
    • Goals and significance
    • Implementation status
    • Role of the nominee
  2. Updated biography
  3. Personal photo
  4. Optional Supporting Materials, such as:
    • Photos, links, videos, publications, patents, or project reports
    • Letters of recommendation or endorsements

Suggested Session Format:

Session Title: AEA Innovation Lecture 2025
Time: 1:00 PM – 2:00 PM
Location: Main Hall, Bibliotheca Alexandrina
Session Chair: Dr. Khaled Awad + Senior AEA Board Member / Guest Moderator

Structure:

  1. 1:00 – 1:05 PM: Opening Remarks
    • Welcome & Introduction by Session Chair
    • Brief overview of the purpose and vision of the Innovation Lecture
  2. 1:05 – 1:35 PM: Innovator Presentations
    • Speaker 1: [10 mins]
    • Speaker 2: [10 mins]
    • Speaker 3: [10 mins]
      (Each presentation followed by a quick 1-minute applause/transition)
  3. 1:35 – 1:55 PM: Honor & Presentation: AEA Innovation Lecturer 2025
    • Introduction of the Awardee
    • Highlight of achievements and reason for selection
    • 10-minute keynote by the AEA Innovation Lecturer 2025
  4. 1:55 – 2:00 PM: Closing
    • Commemorative photo and award presentation
    • Announcement: AEA Innovation Lecture 2026 to continue annually
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