Training of Trainers (ToT) on Major Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs) for CPD Centers

by | Feb 2, 2026 | News3

From January 21-30, 2026, an intensive ToT on the integrated management of major NCDs was conducted in Addis Ababa at the St. Peter Comprehensive Specialized Hospital CPD Center.

The training was organized by the Mathiwos Wondu Foundation (MWF) in close collaboration with the Ministry of Health and St. Peter Comprehensive Specialized Hospital CPD Center with support from Global Health Partnerships (GHP), formerly THET and in partnership with Nottingham University Hospital (NUH).

This training is part of the project titled “Enhancing the Capacity of Continuing Professional Development (CPD) Centers in Ethiopia on NCDs and Mental Health by 2026.” The project aims to transform selected CPD centers into hubs of excellence capable of delivering high-quality, practice-oriented NCD training across the country. Twenty-eight physicians drawn from six project sites or seven CPD centers include Addis Ababa, Debre Birhan, Adama, Arba Minch, Hawassa and Dire Dawa participated in the program. Among them were nine female and nineteen male, all selected for their commitment as well to serve as national trainers within their respective institutions.

The opening and closing ceremonies brought together key stakeholders from MWF, the MoH, St. Peter CPD Center and GHP. MWF Chief Executive Director, Mr. Wondu Bekele, emphasized the responsibility of participants to return to their centers not only as trainees but as future trainers who will help elevate CPD centers into true centers of excellence. Dr. Yoseph Mamo, Country Director of GHP Ethiopia, underlined the importance of translating the knowledge and skills gained into practical action. He also stated GHP’s long lasting and ongoing commitment to supporting human resource development for broader health system strengthening efforts in Ethiopia.

The ToT focused on four major thematic NCD areas alongside cross-cutting training skills:

  • Hypertension and Cardiovascular Risk: Screening, diagnosis, complications, and management, including CKD/CVD risk estimation and care for special groups.
  • Diabetes Mellitus: Types, acute and chronic complications, and management across adults, children and pregnancy.
  • Chronic Respiratory Diseases: Asthma and COPD diagnosis and management, including spirometry and inhaler techniques.
  • Rheumatic Fever and Rheumatic Heart Disease: Prevention, diagnosis, management, and secondary prophylaxis.
  • Cross-cutting Skills: Monitoring and Evaluation, practical skill labs, facilitation techniques, and participant assessment and gender mainstreaming training.

The sessions were delivered by senior specialists from Addis Ababa University and the MoH health trainer pools. Importantly, most trainers were also involved in developing the nationally accredited training manuals. The training carries 15 CEUs as accredited by the MoH.

This ToT went beyond classroom lectures. Participants engaged in practical skill sessions, including blood pressure measurement techniques, spirometry use and inhaler demonstrations for asthma management. Notably, for the first time at the CPD center, trainees had access to a spirometer for hands-on demonstration of chronic respiratory disease diagnosis and management, equipment made available through the support of GHP. Previously, such practical demonstrations were not possible due to lack of equipment.

Each participant undertook both pre-test and post-test assessments. Results were analyzed by the St. Peter CPD center and MWF, and all successful participants were certified. 

In addition, trainees received dedicated sessions on facilitation and teaching skills. During a “teach-back” exercise, each participant delivered a 15-minute presentation, practicing how to effectively transfer knowledge to others which is an essential component of their future role as trainers.

By equipping 28 physicians as certified trainers, this project creates a multiplier effect. These professionals will now return to their respective CPD centers to cascade the training to many more healthcare professionals, strengthening the country’s response to the growing burden NCDs. This ToT marks a significant step toward building sustainable, locally driven capacity within Ethiopia’s CPD system ensuring that healthcare workers are better prepared to prevent, diagnose and manage major NCDs at all levels of care. Participants also provided valuable feedback, highlighting both strengths to be celebrated and areas that require improvement.