CANECSA and COSECSA Strengthen Clinical Training Capacity Through Train-the-Trainer Workshop in Namibia

5–6 August 2026 | University of Namibia, Hage Geingob Campus, Skills Lab

The College of Anaesthesiologists of East, Central and Southern Africa (CANECSA), in collaboration with the College of Surgeons of East, Central and Southern Africa (COSECSA), successfully conducted a two-day Train-the-Trainer Workshop from 5–6 August 2026 at the University of Namibia, Hage Geingob Campus.

The workshop brought together healthcare professionals from Namibia and the wider region with a shared interest in clinical teaching, training, and capacity building. A total of 11 participants attended, with the aim of strengthening their knowledge, skills, and confidence in delivering effective clinical training to medical interns, medical officers, and other healthcare workers.

Strengthening Teaching and Training Skills

The workshop focused on practical, learner-centred approaches to adult education and clinical teaching. Participants engaged in interactive presentations, group discussions, hands-on teaching practice, and peer feedback sessions.

Key topics covered included:

  • Adult Learning and Teaching
  • Learning Styles
  • Presentation Skills
  • Team Motivation and Burnout
  • Teaching a Clinical Skill
  • Giving Constructive Feedback
  • Conflict Management
  • Introduction to Reflection

Participants actively practised teaching techniques, received structured feedback, and explored strategies for improving communication, managing conflict, and strengthening teamwork in clinical learning environments.

Building a Sustainable Pool of Trainers

A key objective of the workshop was to develop a sustainable pool of competent clinical trainers who can cascade knowledge and skills to other healthcare professionals.

The initiative also aimed to strengthen collaboration between CANECSA, the Ministry of Health and Social Services in Namibia, and the Health Professions Council of Namibia, particularly in efforts to enhance the quality of medical internship training.

The workshop was facilitated by experienced faculty from CANECSA and COSECSA, including:

  • Dr Wangui Thang’a, Chair of the CANECSA Education and Scientific Committee
  • Dr Singatiya Stella Chikumbanje, Deputy Registrar of CANECSA
  • Dr Loini Talishi Shivolo-Hamutu, CANECSA Namibia Country Representative
  • Dr Linea Nanyalo-Nashima, CANECSA Namibia Programme Director
  • Dr Celestine Mbangtang, Chair of the COSECSA Finance and General-Purpose Committee
  • Dr KS Kaikai, COSECSA Master Traine
Workshop Highlights (Photo Gallery)

Positive Outcomes and Participant Feedback

Participants reported increased confidence and improved competence in delivering structured, effective, and trainee-centred clinical education. The interactive format was particularly appreciated, allowing participants to learn through practice, observation, and feedback.

Facilitators also commended the high level of engagement, the organisation of the workshop, and the strong commitment demonstrated by participants throughout the training.

Looking Ahead

The successful completion of this workshop reinforces CANECSA and COSECSA’s commitment to sustainable capacity building and continuous improvement of healthcare training across the region.

The programme recommends regular continuation of similar workshops, expansion to include more healthcare professionals involved in training, and strengthened access to ongoing professional development resources.

Through initiatives such as this, CANECSA continues to invest in developing skilled clinical educators and strengthening training systems that contribute to improved healthcare quality across East, Central and Southern Africa.

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