ciovs | Chaithanya Institute of Optometry and Vision Sciences

Our History

The Chaithanya Eye Hospital & Research Institute (CEHRI) commenced functioning in Trivandrum from 26th October, 1995 under the able stewardship of its founder Dr. KGR Nair. Now, in its 30th year, this most modern, fully equipped, state-of-the-art, ISO 9001:2015 certified and fully accredited NABH Hospital is recognized for delivering the best eye care treatment and services to patients. The Hospital, under the guidance of its Medical Director and Managing Partner, Dr.R.Unnikrishnan Nair, MS,DO, DNB, FRCS (Glasg.), FMRF(SN),FVRS(AUST), is well known for its best-in-class facilities, latest treatment modalities, brilliant eye specialists, competent staff and well trained technicians.

In February 2024, we crossed another milestone when we were declared by Bureau Veritas as Asia’s first eye hospital to obtain Green OT Certification.Today, with 12 branches across Kerala, we are one of the largest growing eye care networks in South Kerala.

CHAITHANYA INSTITUTE OF OPTOMETRY & VISION SCIENCES

The Chaithanya Eye Hospital & Research Institute through The Chaithanya Foundation established the Chaithanya Institute of Optometry & Vision Sciences, a teaching and training institution with Dr. V.Sahasranamam, MS,DO, Senior Consultant (Cataract & Pediatric Ophthalmology) as the Principal. Dr. V.Sahasranamam is a retired Professor of Ophthalmology under the Medical College, Trivandrum and was the Head of the Regional Institute of Ophthalmology, Trivandrum. The vast teaching and administrative experience of Dr.V.Sahasranamam, while helping the students gain immensely in knowledge acquisition will also lead the institution to greater heights.

Chaithanya Academics Courses offered

DNB / PG Course
Fellowship
BSC Optometry
Clinical Internship in Optometry
Fellowship in Clinical Optometry
Basic Clinical Training Program
Diploma in Ophthalmics assistant

Dr. KGR Nair

Founder & Chairman 1943-2015

MS DO(London), FRCS(London), FROS (Glasgow)

> यद्यदाचरति श्रेष्ठस्तत्तदेवेतरो जनः।
स यत्प्रमाणं कुरुते लोकस्तदनुवर्तते॥
“Whatever a great person does, others follow.
The standard he sets becomes the guide for the world.”
Bhagavad Gita (3.21)

Though our beloved Founder and Chairman is no longer amongst us, he lives on through the values and vision he instilled. He showed us the path of dedication, integrity and vision — a path that we continue to walk with unwavering commitment. His ideals remain alive within us, inspiring every step we take toward excellence. We work to attain his dream of Giving Light, Protecting Vision and Spreading Hope.

Message from the Managing Trustee

The Chaithanya Foundation

Dear Prospective Students,

Welcome to the Chaithanya Institute of Optometry & Vision Sciences, a proud initiative of the Chaithanya Foundation. The partners of the Chaithanya Eye Hospital & Research Institute conceived and registered The Chaithanya Foundation as a Charitable Society in the year 2022 with the noble objective of providing health science education for ensuring availability of well-trained skilled personnel capable of offering their services to Hospitals. Thus, the Chaithanya Institute of Optometry & Vision Sciences, under The Chaithanya Foundation is a symbol of our commitment to fostering excellence in eye care education. India is witnessing a growing demand for qualified optometrists and career opportunities are expanding rapidly, from clinical roles and specialty care to research, academia and even entrepreneurship in eye care. The possibilities are as vast as your ambition. Choosing a career in Optometry is not just a wise decision; it is a commitment to transforming lives by restoring one of our most precious senses ie. vision.

As the Managing Trustee of The Chaithanya Foundation, I am honoured to offer our B.Sc Optometry program, which is affiliated with the Kerala University of Health Sciences. At our institution, we offer more than just a degree. The students are offered access to highly committed staff along with the most modern equipment and cutting-edge technology available in the Chaithanya Eye Hospital. We offer a nurturing environment where science, compassion, and ethics come together to shape you into a competent and caring eye care professional. The B.Sc Optometry program is designed to provide a strong foundation in clinical skills, practical training, and holistic patient care — equipping you for success in hospitals, clinics, optical practices, community eye health programs and beyond. Inspired by the vision of our Founder, Dr. K.G.R. Nair, we remain committed to his mission of Giving Light, Protecting Vision, and Spreading Hope. We carry forward his legacy by striving for excellence in education and service. When you join us, you become a part of this continuing journey — one that will shape not just your career, but also your character and contribution to society.

We look forward to welcoming you into our academic family.

Warm regards,
Dr. R.Unnikrishnan Nair,
Managing Trustee, The Chaithanya Foundation
Managing Partner, Chaithanya Group of Eye Hospitals

Dr. V.Sahasranamam

Principal

From the Principal's Desk

Dear Students,

Welcome to the threshold of a profession that offers both deep purpose and vast potential. Optometry is not just a career; it is a calling — one where science, compassion and precision come together to restore the gift of sight and enhance the quality of life. At Chaithanya Institute of Optometry & Vision Sciences, we are committed to providing a learning experience that is both rigorous and nurturing. Our B.Sc Optometry program offers a perfect blend of theoretical knowledge, practical training, and real-world clinical exposure. With dedicated faculty, well-equipped laboratories and access to advanced diagnostic and treatment facilities, you will be prepared to serve as a vital part of the eye care team.

We take pride in fostering a culture of integrity, curiosity, and service. These values are deeply rooted in the vision of our revered Founder and Chairman, Dr. K.G.R. Nair, whose guiding mission — Giving Light, Protecting Vision, and Spreading Hope — continues to inspire every aspect of our work.

We invite you to be a part of this journey — to learn, to grow and to lead with purpose.

With Best Wishes

Dr. V.Sahasranamam,
MS DO
Principal

Prof. R.Sivapriya

Vice Principal’s Message

From the Principal's Desk

Dear Prospective Students,
“Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.”
– Nelson Mandela

It is my privilege and honour to welcome you to the Chaithanya Institute of Optometry & Vision Sciences, an institution promoted by the Chaithanya Eye Hospital & Research Institute, through the Chaithanya Foundation - where your journey toward becoming a skilled and compassionate eye care professional begins. Our institution offers a full-fledged 4-year BSc Optometry degree course, affiliated with the Kerala University of Health Sciences (KUHS).

Optometry is a primary healthcare profession—one that demands not only clinical expertise but also a deep sense of empathy and responsibility. At the Chaithanya Institute of Optometry & Vision Sciences, we are committed to providing a transformative learning experience that blends academic excellence with extensive hands-on training. Your exposure to our state-of-the-art specialty clinics and equipment in the Chaithanya Eye Hospital Research Institute and Community outreach initiatives ensure that you graduate with both confidence and competence.

Education at our institute goes far beyond textbooks and classrooms. It is about shaping your mindset, strengthening your values, and unlocking your true potential. Our objective is to nurture future optometrists who are not only knowledgeable, but also visionary, service-minded, and ready to make a meaningful impact in the world.

Our dedicated faculty and dynamic academic environment will support you every step of the way. We are excited to accompany you on this journey as you grow into a compassionate, confident, and dynamic professional.