Targeted mentorship strengthens provider capacity in delivering quality, rights-based family planning services at ECSACOG-accredited training sites.
ECSACOG recently conducted targeted training and mentorship sessions in Kenya and Zimbabwe to enhance residents’ knowledge, attitudes, and clinical skills in Family Planning and Sexual and Reproductive Health (SRH). This initiative reflects the College’s commitment to equipping future specialists with the competencies needed to improve reproductive health outcomes across the region.
The training focused on strengthening residents’ theoretical knowledge and clinical competence in FP and SRH, while also promoting positive provider attitudes by addressing stigma and resistance. In addition, it aimed to support the integration of FP and SRH into the ECSACOG residency curriculum and foster champions who can drive meaningful change within their institutions and communities.
A key feature of the program was its hands-on approach, allowing residents to apply their learning in real clinical settings. Participants demonstrated competence in counseling clients and providing a comprehensive range of contraceptive methods, including short-acting, long-acting, and permanent options. The training also equipped residents with essential skills in post-abortion care, as well as in medication and surgical abortion, ensuring they are prepared to deliver high-quality, respectful, and evidence-based care.
Beyond clinical practice, the training emphasized leadership development and advocacy for sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR). Residents were encouraged to initiate improvements in FP/SRH service integration within their home institutions and to actively promote SRHR within both clinical and academic environments.
By combining theoretical learning with hands-on mentorship, ECSACOG continues to build a strong cadre of specialists dedicated to advancing reproductive health and rights, ensuring women across the region receive the comprehensive care they deserve.
