Minister visits UHI optometry programme in Inverness
The University of the Highlands and Islands (UHI) welcomed Jenni Minto, Minister for Public Health and Women’s Health, to UHI House in Inverness on Tuesday 17 February for a visit to its optometry programme, showcasing innovative teaching, clinical training facilities and the unique student experience.
During the visit, the Minister met with senior staff from UHI and toured the optometry department, including clinical skills and teaching spaces. The programme also included opportunities to engage directly with optometry students and staff.
UHI’s optometry provision plays a key role in supporting the future optometry workforce in Scotland, with a strong focus on rural and community-based education, patient-centred care and clinical excellence.
Jenni Minto, Minister for Public Health and Women’s Health, said:
“The University of the Highlands and Islands is playing a leading role in shaping the future of Scotland’s eyecare workforce. The new Master of Optometry with Independent Prescribing course has a strong emphasis on clinical experience and independent prescribing. It exemplifies the innovation needed to support more patients being managed closer to home and will particularly benefit our rural and island communities and optometry workforce. It is inspiring to see students developing the advanced skills that will help transform how we deliver eyecare services across Scotland."
Alison MacPherson, Head of Optometry at UHI, added:
“We were delighted to welcome the Minister to UHI and to share how our optometry programmes are helping students build the skills, confidence and clinical expertise they need to serve communities across Scotland. This visit this give us a valuable chance to show why investing in education and training that’s rooted in place really matters.”
UHI offer a Master of Optometry with Independent Prescribing programme which combines teaching, technology, simulation and practice experience to prepare graduates for a career in optometry. Applications are now open for September 2026 entry. Anyone interested can register to attend the next open day on Saturday 14 March at UHI House in Inverness.