To advance AI-driven eye care and research

Dr Agarwal’s Institute of Optometry (DAIO) has signed an MoU with VIT Chennai to foster collaboration that aims at integrating artificial intelligence into optometry education and research, with a focus on developing next-generation diagnostic tools, enhancing clinical training, and fostering innovation in eye care solutions.

The MoU was signed between Dr D Karpagam, Dean, DAIO and Dr T Thyagarajan, Pro Vice-Chancellor, VIT Chennai. The signing ceremony took place in the presence of senior dignitaries, faculty members, and representatives from both institutions.

As per the MoU, the students of both institutions will collaborate on research, publish joint interdisciplinary studies, and develop prototypes of AI-powered solutions to transform eye care delivery and education. DAIO will offer VIT students from disciplines such as computer science and artificial intelligence, besides electronics, mechanical engineering and mechatronics, exposure to real-world challenges in the eye care sector. It will leverage its research capabilities to support joint PoC projects on emerging technologies, providing expert guidance on product development and helping convert research ideas into commercially viable innovations.

Dr Karpagam said, “The initiative is expected to benefit over 200 optometry students at DAIO and an equal number of students from VIT, allowing them to work on high-impact, real-world eye-care projects. These efforts will be guided by a joint team of faculty from both institutions. As we move forward, we will also evolve clear strategies for commercialisation, innovation pipelines, and revenue sharing to ensure the long-term impact of our work.”