Notwithstanding any provisions of this chapter to the contrary, any student enrolled in an educational program in opticianry in a regionally accredited institution of higher education may (1) perform such work as is incidental to his course of study at such institution and (2) participate in the operation of any course of study within such institution for the practical training of students in the technique of producing and reproducing ophthalmic lenses and kindred products and mounting the same to supporting materials and the fitting of the same to the eyes under the direct supervision of an optician licensed pursuant to this chapter.