Paramaribo, Suriname. 13 November 2024. In an effort to strengthen regional health security and reinforce biosafety and biosecurity protocols across the Region, the Caribbean Public Health Agency (CARPHA), in collaboration with the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) Suriname Office, conducted an intensive training in Paramaribo, Suriname. The training, held from November 4-8, 2024, brought together Fifteen (15) laboratory and public health professionals from across Suriname, inclusive of eight (8) laboratories spanning four (4) districts equipping them with the critical skills necessary for the safe handling and shipping of infectious substances.
This training was partially funded by the European Union (EU) 11th European Development Fund Regional Health Security Project with the aim of improving the capacity of public health professionals within Member States to safely manage and transport infectious materials, an essential step in protecting the Region from the spread of high-risk pathogens. By prioritising standardised procedures and compliance with international regulations, CARPHA aims to reduce the risk of laboratory-associated infections and unintentional release of hazardous materials.
Dr. Lisa Indar, Ad Interim Executive Director at CARPHA, underscored the importance of regional cooperation in achieving health security. “Regional health security is our collective responsibility, and trainings such as these emphasise the need for vigilance in managing biohazards and infectious materials. CARPHA will continue to work with its Member States and partners such as the EU to safeguard the Caribbean’s public health, protecting both our communities and our economies.”
The training program was facilitated by leading biosafety and biosecurity experts, with a comprehensive curriculum covering the best practices in biosafety, biosecurity, and infectious substance shipping. Attendees were guided through rigorous practical and theoretical modules designed to strengthen their competencies in these critical areas. CARPHA-IATA Trained Trainers, staff of the Bureau of Health-Suriname, Ms. Phyllis Pinas, Public Health Laboratory Director, and Ms. Madhu Rodjan, Epidemiology Assistant and Medical Lab Technologist assisted in the facilitation of the training.
Dr. Yafflo Ouattara, WHO/PAHO Representative, Suriname Office noted, "The collaboration between PAHO and CARPHA in delivering this training marks a significant step forward in our shared mission to enhance biosafety in Suriname. This training equips professionals with the knowledge and skills necessary to respond safely and efficiently to potential public health threats. It is expected that this cohort will share their obtained knowledge when they return to their district laboratories as well as to connect with each other to build the network of shippers in Suriname."
This collaborative effort between CARPHA and PAHO demonstrates the organisations' commitment to bolstering regional capacities and addressing critical areas in biosafety and biosecurity. Through ongoing partnerships and training, CARPHA continues to support Member States in meeting the highest standards in laboratory practices, ultimately contributing to a safer and more resilient Caribbean.
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