Fifty newly trained emergency responders in Liberia have completed the AVoHC-SURGE program to enhance public health emergency response skills. Funded by the Liberian government, WHO, Africa CDC, and Canada, the training emphasizes rapid response and coordination in public health crises. Graduates are now equipped to support Liberia effectively during future emergencies.
Fifty newly trained Liberian emergency responders have completed a month-long AVoHC-SURGE training program aimed at enhancing the nation’s public health emergency response capabilities. This initiative, led by the Liberian government with support from the World Health Organization (WHO), Africa CDC, and the Canadian government, aims to fortify Liberia’s preparedness for health crises. The training equips participants with essential skills in managing public health emergencies and coordinating humanitarian responses.
This AVoHC-SURGE training, an integral aspect of the Emergency Preparedness and Response (EPR) Flagships roadmap, focused on critical areas such as Public Health Emergency Operating Center (PHEOC) management, Health Cluster Coordination, and gender-based violence prevention. The program specifically enhances participants’ abilities to respond effectively within the critical first 48 hours following a public health emergency.
Lieutenant Colonel Dr. Joseph B.N. Kowo Jr., now a member of the Liberia SURGE team, expressed pride in being part of this initiative. He noted the military’s vital role in public health responses historically, including during the Ebola and COVID-19 outbreaks. Dr. Kowo emphasized that the training has prepared them to unite and respond effectively to emergencies as needed.
During the graduation ceremony, Dr. Caullau J. Howe, Assistant Minister for Preventive Services, recognized this program as a significant advancement in Liberia’s public health preparedness. He reiterated that the country had faced several health crises, including Ebola and COVID-19, hence the importance of such training.
Dr. Musu Julie Duworko from WHO acknowledged the graduates’ commitment and dedication, stating that they are now on the WHO roster and could be deployed for emergency assistance in Liberia and beyond. Lieutenant Colonel Dr. Kowo expressed gratitude towards the stakeholders involved, assuring them that the training’s efforts would lead to effective responses to potential outbreaks in Liberia and the surrounding region.
The successful training of fifty emergency responders in Liberia marks a significant step towards enhancing the country’s capacity to handle public health emergencies. The collaboration between the Liberian government and international organizations demonstrates a strong commitment to improving health crisis responses. The skills acquired during this training will enable these professionals to mobilize effectively and implement essential response strategies when needed.
Original Source: www.afro.who.int
