Al-Kindy College of Medicine at the University of Baghdad hosted postgraduate and specialist examinations in Ophthalmology and Ophthalmic Surgery, continuing its role as an accredited examination center for candidates in Iraq.
The College conducted the Ophthalmology Foundation (OF) Examinations on Wednesday, September 30, 2026. The Ophthalmology Foundation is a United States-based nonprofit organization headquartered in San Francisco, California, that provides internationally recognized ophthalmology examinations through approved examination centers around the world.
Although the examination date coincided with an official holiday, Al-Kindy College of Medicine ensured that the examinations proceeded according to schedule. The examination process was conducted under the follow-up of the Dean of the College, Professor Dr. Mohammed Shihab Al-Eidani, under the supervision of the examination coordinator, Dr. Tara Barqee Rashid, and with technical support from the Information Technology Division, represented by its Head, Programmer Noor Faris Abdul Kareem.
The Ophthalmology Foundation examinations are offered internationally twice a year through local examination centers and are designed to assess ophthalmology trainees and professionals against international standards. The current examination pathway includes Visual Sciences, Optics, Refraction & Instruments, and Clinical Ophthalmology.
The examinations are aligned with the American Academy of Ophthalmology’s Basic and Clinical Science Course (AAO BCSC) and are developed with contributions from ophthalmology experts from the United States and other countries.
Hosting the Ophthalmology Foundation examinations in Iraq provides candidates with an important opportunity to undertake internationally recognized professional assessments locally, reducing the need for international travel while maintaining the registration, examination, and quality requirements established by the Foundation.
The College provided dedicated examination halls, appropriate technical infrastructure, and continuous electronic monitoring to ensure the smooth administration of the examinations and maintain high standards of integrity, transparency, reliability, and examination security.
The Ophthalmology Foundation also works with several internationally recognized institutions and professional organizations. Its examination program includes partnerships and academic links with major ophthalmology institutions, while successful completion of its examinations can support professional development and progression toward international fellowship opportunities.
Al-Kindy College of Medicine has extensive experience in hosting international ophthalmology examinations, with a history spanning approximately 18 years. This continued role highlights the College’s contribution to specialist medical education and its commitment to providing internationally oriented educational and assessment opportunities for ophthalmologists in Iraq.
Through hosting the Ophthalmology Foundation examinations, Al-Kindy College of Medicine strengthens access to international medical assessment inside Iraq and reinforces its role in postgraduate education, professional development, and global engagement in ophthalmology.
