The APCOVE Networking Meeting last April 26 - 28, 2023 at JW Marriot Hotel, Bangkok explored the diversity of field epidemiology training (FET) programs in South-East Asia and the Pacific. The workshop aimed to develop future directions and opportunities, identify challenges and gaps, and suggest recommendations for enhancing and improving the existing training system.
Key discussion themes
The need for a sustainable network of empowered veterinarians and veterinary paraprofessionals (VPPs) in the region.
The importance of addressing common interests and country-specific needs in FET programs.
The need to develop a roadmap to coordinate existing networks and platforms for FET programs within countries and across the region.
The importance of establishing high-quality joint training that prioritizes agreed on common areas and areas in which sectors need to learn from each other.
Recommendations for action
The workshop participants developed three high-level priorities for action:
Advocate and influence donors, funders, industry, and governments to achieve sustainable, accredited FET programs.
Develop and implement a roadmap to coordinate existing networks and platforms for FET programs within countries and across the region.
Establish high-quality joint training that prioritizes agreed on common areas and areas in which sectors need to learn from each other.
The workshop participants
The workshop involved 72 participants representing government and non-government organizations, universities, and networks involved in FET in the Asia Pacific and Eastern Mediterranean regions.
The next steps
The workshop participants agreed to continue working together to implement the recommendations of the Communique. They also agreed to hold a follow-up meeting in 2024 to assess progress and make further recommendations.
The importance of FET
Field epidemiology training (FET) is essential for building the capacity of countries in South-East Asia and the Pacific to respond to public health emergencies. FET programs provide participants with the skills and knowledge they need to investigate and control outbreaks of disease.
The APCOVE Networking Meeting was an important opportunity for stakeholders to come together and discuss the future of FET in the region. The recommendations of the Communique provide a roadmap for achieving sustainable, accredited FET programs that will help to improve public health and save lives.
To download the full Communique, please click the file below.
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