Sankara Nethralaya has entered into a memorandum of understanding with Singapore National Eye Centre Pte Ltd (SNEC) for collaboration on programmes in ophthalmic service, education and research and development. The objective of the MOU is to establish a comprehensive multilateral institutional alliance that will link up major ophthalmic institutions in a global network.

The MOU also proposes development of joint scientific and educational programmes in ophthalmology and related medical science using the latest in educational methodology and technology to provide continuing medical education in the Southeast region. The research and development programmes will be in the areas of developing clinical trials of mutual interest and to work together in identifying medical issues and problems, and to develop specifically in research and development that will lead to new technologies and applications to enhance medical diagnosis and therapy.

The proposed global network of ophthalmic institutions will be dedicated to the advancement of ophthalmic science and service and shall provide tremendous opportunities to develop and professional interactions and collaboration across the entire spectrum of clinical service, teaching and research among the participating institutions.

The MOU will also facilitate cross referral of patients between the two institutions for seamless coverage and continuous care. Faculty members will be identified between the two institutions to consult on specific cases by direct examination of patients or by tele-ophthalmology.