A young Cambodian woman is only months from graduating as her country’s first female eye surgeon, thanks to training provided by The Fred Hollows Foundation.

Dr Ouk Soleaphy, 26, is breaking down traditional barriers to become an ophthalmologist in Cambodia. She is currently preparing to complete her final exams after three years of specialised study.

“In Cambodia, many hospitals lack medical doctors specialised in ophthalmology,” said Dr Soleaphy.

“After my graduation, I will be immediately sent to work in the provincial hospital of Kampong Chhang where I will be able to make use of my knowledge, to enhance my skills and to serve my own people.”

Dr Soleaphy is the first woman to undertake the Ophthalmology Residency Training Program established by The Foundation in partnership with Cambodia’s National Program for Eye Health.

Around three quarters of blindness in Cambodia is caused by cataract – a treatable condition.

At present, there are only seven ophthalmologists in Cambodia. The four-year training program will more than double the number of eye specialists in the country by 2012.