Journal of Reproductive Health and Contraception

Midwifery Curricula Inclusion of Sexual and Reproductive Health in Crisis Settings in the Democratic Republic of Congo

International Congress on Midwifery and Maternal health - October Webinar
October 11, 2021 | Webinar

Achu Lordfred

UNFPA, Democratic Republic of Congo

ScientificTracks Abstracts: J Contracept Stud

Abstract

Aim – This discussion paper aims to argue for the inclusion of the Minimum Initial Service Package (MISP) for sexual and reproductive health in crisis settings in all midwifery curricula. Background – The Democratic Republic of Congo continues to experience longstanding humanitarian crises that have affected the population’s health, especially in relation to sexual violence and other sexual and reproductive health issues. The MISP was established in 1996 to meet the most vital sexual and reproductive health needs of crisis-affected populations and has become an international minimum standard in humanitarian response. Methods – This paper is a case presentation describing the process and lessons learned related to the introduction of the MISP into the first- and third-year preservice midwifery curricula at multiple midwifery education facilities in the Democratic Republic of Congo. Results – Six main lessons were identified during the initial implementation phases of the revised midwifery curricula: seizing the opportunity to influence long-term change, engaging teamwork, and addressing instructors’ concerns, mobilizing resources for curriculum implementation, assessing school infrastructure readiness during field visits, and meeting immediate humanitarian needs with in-service training. The lessons learned may assist other nations experiencing humanitarian crises with the implementation of the MISP. Conclusions – This pre-service training strategy holds promise for both a sustainable and prompt solution to bridge the gap in competent human resources to deliver quality sexual and reproductive health services in humanitarian settings.

Biography

Achu Lordfred is Chief Technical Adviser for Reproductive, Maternal, Newborn and Adolescent health in UNFPA in DRC. More than 30 years of professional work experience with close to twenty of them working for UN agencies and International NGOs in complex emergencies and in post conflict/recovery and development situations, A seasoned diplomat, Achu has always won recognition within the Organizations for which he has worked. He is widely acclaimed for the great achievements that have been registered since 2017 in the area of reproductive, maternal and neonatal health in DRC with UNFPA support. Achu strives to impact knowledge hence teaching and training others to embrace and work towards the noble goal of “no woman should die while giving life”. He loves reading, writing and speaking on a variety of issues: reproductive health, management, leadership, gender, humanitarian, population and development. He loves sports, walking, and playing table tennis.