In an exciting move to provide free quality training opportunities to those delivering elder care in developing countries, we are welcoming applications for our new in-person and online training programme, Train the Trainer.
Hosted by Tafta, the Association for the Aged, a registered non-profit organisation dedicated to the alleviation of distress and the promotion of the welfare of aged persons living in the Durban area, South Africa, our free Train the Trainer programme has a special focus on Africa.
This programme has been made possible with support from the Fulbright Specialist Programme, which allows for US academics and professionals to provide short-term training and expertise to international host organisations.
Headed up by our Board Director, Dr Renu Abraham Varughese, a prominent clinical gerontologist, accomplished scholar, and an Associate Professor at Mercy University, New York, USA, our Train the Trainer programme focuses on critical areas such as:
- understanding neurological changes in ageing, and its impact on the cognitive and physiological functioning of older adults
- dementia and how best to manage challenging behaviour
- person centred planning and care
- comprehensive assessment tools for older persons, and building capacity through the Train the Trainer approach.
Anyone who is working in the field of caring for older people can apply, such as:
- Directors of care organisations
- Care Managers
- Community carers
- Nurses
- Social workers
- Occupational therapists
- Activity coordinators
- Commissioners of services
Commenting on our new programme, our Vice Chair, and CEO of Tafta Femada Shamon says: ‘As the CEO of Tafta, I am immensely grateful for the power of global collaboration and networking evident in our Train the Trainer program. Together with Commonage and through partnerships like the Fulbright Specialist Program, we are not only enhancing our aged care workforce but also embodying the spirit of shared responsibility and mutual growth.
While we understand that we cannot be everything to everyone, leveraging the strengths of international partnerships allow us to meet diverse needs effectively. This reciprocity ensures not only effectiveness but also efficiencies as we collectively strive to build a Commonwealth, and indeed, a world for all ages,’ she says.
Dr Renu says: ‘To come to Durban as a Fulbright Specialist is an immense honour and privilege for me which signifies not only recognition of my expertise and dedication in my field but also an opportunity to contribute to knowledge exchange and collaboration with partners in South Africa. I am grateful to the Fulbright board, TAFTA, and Common Age for making this a reality.’
Our Chair, Mansur Dalal says: ‘Many people working the field of aged care in African Commonwealth countries simply don’t have access to this level of training, and if they do, it comes at great expense. Through our international collaborations, we are proud to be able to offer this level of training, free, to those who need it the most.’
More details and how to apply can be found here.
Join us to ensure that older people are thoroughly recognised and sustained to live well in an age-inclusive Commonwealth.
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