The Unitaid-funded ASCENT DR-TB project, implemented in Ethiopia by KNCV Ethiopia in collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Health (FMOH) and South Ethiopia Regional Health Bureau conducted a comprehensive four-day training program focused on the effective utilization of clinical monitoring tools, result interpretation, and Active Drug Safety Monitoring (aDSM) for healthcare professionals in the South Ethiopia region.
About the training
The training took place from April 8 to 11, 2025, at the Daros International Hotel in Arbaminch. The last two days
of the training focused mainly on hands-on sessions. Key participants included focal persons and nurses for drug-resistant tuberculosis (DR-TB) from five treatment initiating centers (TICs): Arbaminch, Dilla, Sawla, Wolaita, and Jinka. The training was also attended by clinical pharmacists with direct involvement in the management of people with DR-TB.
The training incorporated both theoretical instruction, delivered by an expert in PMDT (Programmatic Management of Drug-Resistant Tuberculosis); and practical sessions facilitated by the PMDT expert and the PMDT technical consultant for the ASCENT DR-TB project from KNCV Ethiopia. The practical component involved demonstrations of examination procedures followed by group exercises.
Upon completion of the program, participating healthcare workers gained practical expertise in utilizing clinical monitoring tools and interpreting results. They also developed a clear understanding of appropriate actions to take when abnormal findings are identified. This enhanced capacity will contribute to strengthening the quality of care provided to people with DR-TB during baseline assessments and follow-ups, enabling the early detection, timely management, and accurate reporting of adverse events
