TY  - JOUR
T1  - Decolonizing Global Health Education: Evaluating a Multi-Country Virtual Training Program on Female Genital Schistosomiasis
A1  - George William Patterson
A1  - Andrew Colin Foster
JF  - Journal of Medical Sciences and Interdisciplinary Research
JO  - J Med Sci Interdiscip Res
SN  - 3108-4826
Y1  - 2022
VL  - 2
IS  - 2
DO  - 10.51847/DOCZbbO5oU
SP  - 75
EP  - 88
N2  - Medical education and professional development in infectious diseases have historically been shaped by resources from high-income countries, often overlooking conditions like Female Genital Schistosomiasis (FGS). In response, The Geneva Learning Foundation implemented a multi-country virtual training in 2023 using a peer-based learning-to-action approach, designed to fill this knowledge gap and strengthen the capacity of healthcare workers in endemic regions. The program unfolded in two stages. The first stage introduced participants to FGS and guided them in creating action plans to address it, while the second stage provided structured support for executing these plans. To assess the program’s reach and effectiveness, we conducted a mixed-methods study grounded in connectivist theory, collecting both quantitative and qualitative survey data, which were analyzed independently and then synthesized. A total of 255 healthcare workers from 19 Francophone African countries participated in the initial phase, representing all tiers of the health system. Over two-thirds reported improvements in FGS knowledge, and collectively they trained 2,675 colleagues. Around 85% of participants highlighted the value of the peer review process in refining their action plans and generating innovative ideas. Notably, course completion rates were consistent across professional roles and organizational affiliations. The program fostered personal and professional growth through new networks and peer connections. These networks provided ongoing support, while certification enabled career advancement and expanded responsibilities. Across both phases, participants reached 49,088 community members with FGS education. By leveraging local knowledge exchange and peer collaboration, the virtual learning-to-action model successfully addressed immediate training needs, empowered healthcare workers to apply their learning in real-world settings, and offered a decolonized approach to FGS education that centered local perspectives and action.
UR  - https://smerpub.com/article/decolonizing-global-health-education-evaluating-a-multi-country-virtual-training-program-on-female-go7bwhn9mcgjlaa
ER  -