The 12th World Glaucoma Congress (WGC) will bring together the global glaucoma community in Kyoto, Japan, for four days of cutting-edge science, practical education, expert discussion and international collaboration.
WGC-2027 will feature a series of special sessions and events designed to inspire, challenge and connect delegates from around the world. From a special lecture by the 2014 Nobel Prize winner in Physics to cutting-edge discussions on artificial intelligence, advanced surgical techniques and global perspectives on glaucoma care, these sessions represent some of the most anticipated highlights of the Congress.
Explore the featured program highlights below:
Tuesday, April 20
Opening Ceremony – Nobel Laureate Award Lecture | 10:30 – 11:15
A rare opportunity to hear directly from a 2014 Nobel Prize laureate, Prof. Hiroshi Amano, whose groundbreaking discoveries have transformed modern science and medicine. This prestigious lecture will explore innovation, scientific discovery and the lessons that continue to shape the future of healthcare.
Presidential Symposium | 11:30 – 12:30
One of the traditional flagship sessions of the World Glaucoma Congress, the Presidential Symposium brings together internationally recognised leaders to discuss the most important developments shaping glaucoma research, education and patient care.
Glaucoma Surgery in 2027: The Decision-Making to Optimize Patient Outcomes | 14:30 – 17:30
The Glaucoma Surgery Day at WGC-2027 is a premier event featuring top experts from across the globe with a focus on decision making, optimization of surgical outcomes and the emerging role of AI in patient care. This symposium bridges basic science like outflow imaging and wound healing with complex clinical scenarios requiring treatment algorithms and expert led solutions for surgical care. A unique feature of the session will be evidence-based debates on the best surgical strategy to be adopted in various stages of the disease and difficult situations such as Neovascular glaucoma. Recent advances in lasers, minimally invasive glaucoma surgery, bleb forming devices, supraciliary stents along with traditional trab-tube filtration will also be discussed giving the attendee unique insights which can be directly translated into enhancing the surgical care of glaucoma worldwide.
Imaging & AI | 14:30 – 17:30
This session brings together world-renowned experts in glaucoma imaging and artificial intelligence to highlight the latest advances redefining the landscape of glaucoma diagnosis and care. Through interactive lectures and expert discussion, attendees will gain cutting-edge insights into the early diagnosis of glaucoma, differentiation of challenging cases, and practical approaches to interpreting imaging reports efficiently in busy clinical practice, spanning both current and emerging imaging technologies. The session will further explore the present and near-future integration of artificial intelligence into everyday glaucoma practice, focusing on its potential to enhance diagnostic accuracy, improve workflow efficiency, refine disease monitoring, and ultimately elevate patient quality of life. Designed for clinicians, researchers, and innovators alike, this session offers a concise yet inspiring overview of the evolving interface between advanced imaging, AI, and patient-centered glaucoma management.
Wednesday, April 21
What Can We Do for the Glaucoma Patient? | 08:00 – 09:30
This thought-provoking plenary session focuses on what matters most: improving outcomes for glaucoma patients. Through expert perspectives, practical insights and discussions on patient-centered care, attendees will explore current challenges and opportunities to enhance the glaucoma patient journey across different healthcare settings worldwide.
WGA–ESCRS Course: Precision Refractive Cataract Surgery in Glaucoma Patients | 16:15 – 17:15
This collaborative course brings together glaucoma and cataract specialists to address the unique challenges of managing patients requiring both glaucoma and refractive cataract surgery. Learn practical approaches to achieve optimal visual and clinical outcomes.
Thursday, April 22
The Future of Glaucoma Diagnosis and Therapy | 08:00 – 09:30
As technology and innovation continue to transform glaucoma care, this plenary session will explore the future of diagnosis, monitoring and treatment. International experts will discuss emerging technologies, evolving therapeutic approaches and the developments that are expected to shape glaucoma practice in the years ahead.
WGA–JGS Joint Session: The Centenarian Eye – Challenges in Diagnosing and Treating Glaucoma | 10:00 – 11:30
As populations continue to age, glaucoma specialists are increasingly caring for very elderly patients. This session will examine the diagnostic, therapeutic and quality-of-life considerations involved in managing glaucoma in centenarians and older adults.
Friday, April 23
WGA–ESASO Joint Session: Rapid-Fire Clinical Controversies in Advanced Glaucoma Care | 08:00 – 09:30
Fast-paced, interactive and thought-provoking, this session tackles some of the most debated topics in advanced glaucoma management. Experts will present opposing viewpoints and discuss the evidence behind their clinical decisions.
Africa Symposium | 08:00 – 09:30
Highlighting perspectives, innovations and challenges from across the African continent, this symposium will showcase regional expertise and promote dialogue on improving glaucoma care in diverse healthcare environments.
Trainees Under Pressure: The WGA Glaucoma Knowledge Quest | 10:00 – 11:30
Please note that participation in this session is limited to trainees and students.
Designed specifically for the next generation of glaucoma specialists, this fun and interactive challenge will test participants’ knowledge, clinical reasoning and problem-solving skills in a lively and competitive environment.
Film Festival | 11:00 – 12:00
Explore the creative side of glaucoma education through the WGC Film Festival. Featuring educational, clinical and inspirational submissions from around the world, this session celebrates visual storytelling and innovation in ophthalmology.
Best of the Best & Award Ceremony | 12:15 – 13:45
The Congress culminates with a celebration of excellence, recognizing the most outstanding scientific contributions presented at WGC-2027. Join colleagues from around the world as we honour award recipients and showcase the best research and presentations from the Congress.