Establishing a Student-Led Ophthalmology Interest Group to Increase Early Exposure: A Program Report from Pakistan

Early exposure to surgical subspecialties is often limited in undergraduate medical education, particularly in ophthalmology. In response to this unmet need, three medical students at Aga Khan University established a student-led Ophthalmology Interest Group (OIG) in 2022. We present a descriptive program report of the group’s initiative. The group aimed to facilitate mentorship, early skills development, and career exploration through academic, clinical, and community activities. OIG adopted a three-tier leadership structure with faculty and alumni support while maintaining a student-driven approach. Between 2022 and 2024, the group expanded from 9 to 18 leadership positions, conducted 29 events, and recorded 311 cumulative attendances. Annual participation over these three years increased from 41 to 140 attendances, and the number of students pursuing ophthalmology away rotations increased from 1 to 6. Our experience suggests that a low direct-cost, student-led interest group can provide a practical framework for organizing early exposure opportunities and structured activities in ophthalmology. This model may be relevant to other institutions seeking to support student involvement in surgical subspecialties. This report describes the development, structure, activities, descriptive growth indicators, and lessons learned from the OIG.