
Infection Prevention and Control of Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs) in the Era of COVID-19
Mycetoma Research Center, University of Khartoum participated in the Infection Prevention and Control of Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs) in the Era of COVID-19 training programme, organised in the period November 3rd – 28th, 2024, by Ain Shams University and Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), Cairo, Egypt,
Background
To raise awareness and draw the attention of national governments to the critical importance of preventing and controlling neglected tropical diseases (NTDs), the Faculty of Medicine at Ain Shams University, under the leadership of Prof. Samia Abdo Girgis, Director of the Trilateral Cooperation Programme, organised an intensive and collaborative Trilateral Country Training Programme on the Prevention and Control of Neglected Tropical Diseases in the Era of COVID-19. This landmark programme, conducted from November 3rd to November 28th, 2024, was held in partnership with the Egyptian Agency of Partnership for Development, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Egypt, and the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA). The initiative was designed to bring together expertise, foster regional collaboration, and build capacity in African countries to tackle the dual burden of NTDs and pandemics like COVID-19.
Objectives and Vision
Neglected tropical diseases predominantly affect tropical and subtropical regions, disproportionately impacting poor and underserved communities. These diseases lead to devastating health outcomes, as well as severe social and economic consequences. According to WHO estimates, over 1.6 billion people globally require treatment for NTDs at least once annually, making prevention and control an urgent global health priority.
The training programme aimed to enhance the ability of participating countries to align their national strategies with the World Health Organization (WHO) roadmap for combating and eliminating NTDs. A particular focus was placed on fostering communication and cooperation among African participants and peer trainees, enabling the creation of long-lasting partnerships and professional networks.
Programme Highlights and Support
During the training, significant efforts were made to support participants in developing cost-effective and locally adaptable strategies to combat NTDs. Emphasis was placed on leveraging affordable technologies to meet programme goals. Participants were trained in designing and implementing action plans tailored to their national contexts and applying the skills and knowledge gained throughout the programme.
The programme also focused on enhancing technical expertise in areas critical to the prevention and control of NTDs, including administrative and managerial capacity and adherence to global and local health guidelines, disease surveillance systems, outbreak investigation techniques and the use of epidemiological tools and research methodologies.
The importance of building robust networks was underscored throughout the programme. Participants were encouraged to collaborate with the Egyptian Agency of Partnership for Development, JICA, and the programme trainers and implementers, ensuring ongoing cooperation and knowledge exchange even after the program concluded.
Alignment with Global Goals
The programme also aimed to align its activities with broader global objectives, including the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). By providing participants with access to cutting-edge educational resources and training, the programme empowered them to implement NTD prevention and control initiatives in their home countries effectively. Participants were also encouraged to engage in collaborative research and development projects to strengthen Africa fight against NTDs.
The programme will lay the foundation for a strong research and development team dedicated to eradicating NTDs in Africa. She stressed the importance of a unified approach, with countries and partners working together to identify common goals and maximise collective efforts in alignment with the WHO comprehensive strategy for NTD elimination.
Programme Outcomes and Legacy
One of the highlights of the programme was the series of workshop videos created by African participants, showcasing innovative approaches and solutions they developed during the training sessions. These videos served as tangible outcomes of the programme and demonstrated the creativity, adaptability, and problem-solving skills of the participants.
The programme concluded with a ceremony to honour the participants, where certificates of appreciation and commemorative gifts were distributed. This gesture recognised the hard work and dedication of the trainees while encouraging them to act as ambassadors of change in their respective countries.
This initiative underscores Ain Shams University commitment to fostering regional partnerships, advancing public health, and supporting African countries in their fight to eliminate neglected tropical diseases and achieve health equity.
Prof. Fahal, Director of the Mycetoma Research Center (MRC), conducted a specialised training module on mycetoma. During this session, he shared the extensive experience and expertise of the MRC in various aspects of mycetoma research, diagnosis, and management. Dr. Samira Mohamed, a dedicated Research Assistant at the MRC, played an active and impactful role throughout the programme, earning recognition as its shining star for her exceptional contributions and engagement.