QWArS and SEALAB programs: synergy and networking
Cambodia
November 18, 2022
The QWArS projects, funded by the Fleming Fund, aims to support in-service training by developing and delivering three standardized modules on AMR, microbiology, epidemiology, and a Master Trainer to strengthen laboratory capacities and improve career progression of the participating countries.
The Merieux Foundation participates in the consortium, led by the African Society for Laboratory Medicine (ASLM) with the Africa Centre for Disease Control (CDC), the American Society for Microbiology (ASM), the Pasteur International Network, the Health Research Institute for Epidemiological Surveillance and Training(IRESSEF) and the National Food Institute, Technical University of Denmark (DTU).
The QWArS and SEALAB projects also promote five strategic pillars:
The microbiology units of laboratories participating in the SEALAB project were selected as a priority to participate in the QWArS project due to the synergy of both projects in terms of objectives and core activities.
The QWArS project includes a Training of Trainers (TOT) course to create a pool of qualified laboratory and epidemiology trainers at a national level. This approach is needed more than ever after experiencing the COVID-19 traveling restrictions that required changes in the organization of both the SEALAB and QWArS programs and demonstrated the importance of having a pool of national skilled trainers.
Dr. Emma Govore delivered this one-week TOT in Phnom Penh from November 14-18, 2022, so that national trainers could better develop training materials, deliver training based on adult learning techniques, adjust teaching styles and content depending on the background, size and interests of the participants and to adequately manage participants and classrooms.
In addition, this training has given a great opportunity to develop networking among the trainers by bringing together human and animal health sectors from Cambodia and Lao PDR.
