Fifty Liberian professionals have completed the AVoHC-SURGE training program, enhancing the country’s public health response capabilities. Supported by the Liberian government, WHO, Africa CDC, and Canada, the initiative focuses on emergency operations and effective crisis response. Graduates are now equipped to aid in health emergencies both locally and regionally.
In Nimba, Liberia, fifty professionals have completed the AVoHC-SURGE training program, aimed at enhancing the nation’s capacity for responding to public health emergencies. This initiative, led by the Liberian government with support from the World Health Organization, Africa CDC, and the Canadian government, seeks to improve public health response capabilities across the country.
The AVoHC-SURGE training is integral to the Emergency Preparedness and Response Flagships roadmap. Participants acquired essential skills in key areas, including Public Health Emergency Operating Center management, humanitarian coordination, and vital knowledge surrounding Gender-Based Violence and the prevention of sexual exploitation and abuse during emergencies.
Lieutenant Colonel Dr. Joseph B.N. Kowo Jr. expressed his pride in joining the SURGE Team, highlighting the military’s historic role in public health emergencies, citing past responses to outbreaks like Ebola and COVID-19. His remarks emphasized the importance of their training in ensuring a standardized and effective response to future crises.
Dr. Caullau J. Howe, Assistant Minister for Preventive Services, acknowledged the program’s significance during the graduation ceremony, noting that it marks an important advancement in Liberia’s preparedness for public health challenges. He referenced the country’s history with health crises to underscore the need for such training.
Dr. Musu Julie Duworko of the WHO commended the graduates for their commitment, confirming their new status on the WHO roster, which allows them to be deployed for emergencies both within Liberia and beyond. She reassured stakeholders that the resources invested in the training will significantly enhance Liberia’s outbreak response capacity.
The AVoHC-SURGE training program has successfully equipped fifty Liberian professionals with essential skills to enhance public health emergency response. Supported by national and international organizations, the program marks a significant step in strengthening Liberia’s capacity against future health crises, embodying a collaborative effort to safeguard the public. Graduates now possess the requisite training to effectively mobilize resources and respond decisively in times of emergency, thereby improving overall national emergency preparedness.
Original Source: www.afro.who.int
