Sixteen (16) clinicians from both rural and urban health facilities across Western Highlands have completed a five-day Basic Emergency Care (BEC) training at the Mt Hagen Provincial Specialist Hospital from 24 to 28 August 2026, marking an important milestone in building the province’s emergency response capacity.

The program, developed by the World Health Organization in collaboration with the International Committee of the Red Cross and the International Federation for Emergency Medicine, equips frontline health workers with a structured approach to managing acutely ill and injured patients in resource-constrained settings.

A total of 16 participants attended the training, comprising 7 CHWs, 7 Nursing Officers, Dr. Pendene Taiye from Tambul Health Centre, and Health Extension Officer Ms. Vivian Andrew from Paglum Health Sub-Centre.

Ms Andrew, speaking at the close of the training, said she was determined to share what she had learned with colleagues back at the health facility.

“With the knowledge I have gained, I will share it with colleagues at my health facility who could not attend. Together, we work with one purpose, to save lives, and that purpose is paramount,” she said.

“Dr Taiye described the training as both refreshing and essential, highlighting its value for district doctors and health extension officers.

“This type of training aligns our minds and sharpens our focus on what is urgent and requires immediate attention. As a doctor working at one of the rural district facilities, I believe it is vital to strengthen such programs at the district level so that more staff can benefit. While we rely on the knowledge gained from school, refresher courses like this keep us alert and prepared to respond effectively to emergencies,” he said. 

The course was delivered by three BEC Master Trainers, Dr Jacklyn John, HEO Ms Joyce Allan and HEO James Winta with support from Nursing Officer, Mr Junior Samuel, Associate Professor Colin Banks, commended the group’s commitment despite the challenge of reaching all clinicians.

“The skills you have gained will reach your health centres and districts. Even if we cannot train everyone at once, each group we reach becomes a ripple of change that will strengthen our health system and save lives,” he said.

Acting Director for Medical Services Dr John Jr. McKup, urged participants to apply their skills in rural facilities: “We want the same level of care given to patients in the main hospital to also reach those in rural areas. Our aim is to make BEC training a continuing program each year, targeting 75 percent of clinicians across Western Highlands Provincial Health Authority.”

The training concluded on Friday, 28 August 2026, with participants awarded Basic Emergency Care certificates. The group left with renewed determination to cascade their skills to colleagues, reinforcing emergency preparedness and ensuring lifesaving care reaches even the most remote corners of the province.