Applications for GOARN training sessions invited

[Claire Boardman]

Dear All,

You may be aware that AICA is a partner of GOARN (Global Outbreak & response network – WHO)

This email contains the application procedures for the next two GOARN training courses that will be held in the Western Pacific Region . AICA has been asked to identify appropriate candidates from the AICA membership who may wish to apply to the training courses. The costs of airfare and perdiem for the selected participants will be covered by WHO.

BACKGROUND
Experience from GOARN missions has highlighted the importance of rapid mobilization of technically proficient and experienced field teams in effective support to national outbreak response efforts. In order to prepare GOARN partners to take part in outbreak missions, WPRO has conducted outbreak response training courses.

In 2009, GOARN partners assisted governments in the Region to respond to the threats posed by Pandemic (H1N1) 2009, an outbreak of Vibrio Vulnificus in New Caledonia and one of the largest outbreaks of Leptospirosis ever recorded in the Philippines. Graduates of the regional training courses were mobilized in all of the regional GOARN missions in 2009.

An evaluation of the GOARN training course was conducted in 2009 and the recommendations included: (1) to further develop the use of a single outbreak scenario; (2) increase the group work and practical sessions; and (3) strengthen the team building component of the course. In light of these recommendations, WPRO in collaboration with WHO/HQ, has redesigned the GOARN training course and created a six-day scenario-driven course which aims to simulate the technical and operational challenges of outbreak responses. Participants will be trained using one continuous outbreak scenario which will incorporate practical exercises on decision-making, communication, conflict resolution and team-building.

DATES AND LOCATION
Sabah, Malaysia, from 27 November to 3 December 2010
Kampot, Cambodia, from 25 February to 4 March 2011

APPLICATION PROCEDURE
Each of the courses will be able to accommodate approximately 26 participants. The training will be in English, therefore participants must be fluent as they will be expected to:

Deliver presentations in English
Participate in technical panels during the training where they will need to be able to answer questions rapidly in English.

The training is highly interactive and will involve role play and practical scenarios

Applicants must meet ALL the essential criteria detailed below and priority will be given to those who also meet one or more of the desirable criteria. Please read the criteria carefully and ensure that you have the relevant expertise and experience before applying.

ESSENTIAL CRITERIA
Availability for deployment
Availability for missions at short notice
Availability for mission of 2-3 weeks and sometimes longer
Holds AICA Credentials (CICP)

PROFESSIONAL BACKGROUND
Public health professional with at least five years of relevant field experience.
Experience in field response in emergency or outbreak situations (this should not be limited to programme administration at Headquarters)
Experience in conducting initial field assessments

KNOWLEDGE & SKILLS
Understanding of and an ability to work in a multi-disciplinary, multicultural team and with national counterparts
Excellent interpersonal and communication skills
Ability to be flexible and work in a changing environment
Ability to assume authority as and when needed
Ability to work effectively under stress and in conditions of extreme hardship, with minimum guidance and support
Ability to build and maintain harmonious working relationships, coordinate different elements of outbreak response operations and provide leadership in achieving priority goals
Ability to analyze rapidly changing situations, digest technical and political issues and take responsibility for prioritizing action
Ability to present relevant information in a concise, effective and focused manner, both orally and written
Working knowledge of computer applications and telecommunication technologies

DESIRABLE
Experience in management/coordination of field response in emergency or outbreak situations (this should not be limited to programme administration at Headquarters)
Public health work experience in developing countries
Field experience of outbreak response developing countries
An understanding of the UN/WHO system

Applicants who meet the criteria outline above should send the following information to: Claire Boardman via admin@aica.org.au by 1700 hrs EST. Monday 11th October 2010:

A letter of motivation outlining why you would like to take part in this training
The letter should be no more than 800 words written in English
Draw on your skills and experiences
A current CV which illustrates that you meet the selection criteria
A letter of approval from the head of your institution that you would be available for deployment and short notice for a minimum of two weeks (practicing clinicians working in hospitals/ health care facilities a minimum of one week)
Please indicate the preferred training date and location in the application. If applicants are successful GOARN will do their best to accommodate their choice.

Please contact Claire Boardman for further information.

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