Fifty newly trained emergency responders have successfully completed the AVoHC-SURGE program in Liberia, enhancing the country’s public health emergency preparedness. This initiative, supported by WHO, Africa CDC, and the Canadian government, equips responders with crucial skills for effective mobilization during emergencies. High-ranking officials emphasized the program’s significance for national health responses.
Fifty emergency responders in Liberia have completed a comprehensive AVoHC-SURGE training program aimed at enhancing the nation’s response to public health emergencies. This initiative is a collaboration between the Liberian government, the World Health Organization (WHO), the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC), and the Canadian government, designed to bolster Liberia’s emergency preparedness capacity.
The AVoHC-SURGE program is integral to the Emergency Preparedness and Response (EPR) Flagships roadmap, equipping participants with essential skills in Public Health Emergency Operating Center (PHEOC) management, Humanitarian and Health Cluster Coordination, and Gender-Based Violence (GBV) prevention. Training also covered key areas like Prevention and Response to Sexual Exploitation, Abuse, and Harassment (PRSEAH) in emergencies, and Rapid Response Team (RRT) operations.
Lieutenant Colonel Dr. Joseph B.N. Kowo Jr., Assistant Chief of Staff for Health Services of the Armed Forces of Liberia, expressed his pride in joining the SURGE Team. He noted, “The military has a long history of playing a critical role in public health emergencies,” emphasizing the training’s importance for effective responses during crises.
Dr. Caullau J. Howe, Assistant Minister for Preventive Services, underlined the milestone achieved during the graduation ceremony, stating, “This cohort represents a crucial step forward in our preparedness efforts,” acknowledging Liberia’s challenges with public health crises like Ebola and COVID-19.
Dr. Musu Julie Duworko from WHO commended the graduates for their dedication, confirming their placement on the WHO roster for potential emergency deployments. Lieutenant Colonel Dr. Joseph B.N. Kowo reaffirmed the commitment, stating that the training investments will ensure effective responses to outbreaks in Liberia and the surrounding region.
The completion of the AVoHC-SURGE training program marks a significant advancement in Liberia’s public health emergency response capabilities. With training from esteemed organizations, the new cadre of responders is expected to play a vital role during health crises. Their preparation underscores the importance of collaboration between government entities and international organizations in fostering a robust health system in Liberia.
Original Source: www.afro.who.int
