For the first time since 2007, Ghana is rolling out a nationwide training to strengthen the leadership and technical skills of mid-level and operational level immunization officers. With funding from Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance, and technical support from the World Health Organization (WHO) and partners, the Ghana Health Service (GHS) has developed and adopted updated training materials for the Mid-Level Management (MLM) and Immunization in Practice (IIP) modules, two globally recognized modules for building capacity of immunization officers.

As Ghana continues to introduce new vaccines, close equity gaps, and respond to evolving public health needs, equipping immunization staff with standardized knowledge, practical skills, and leadership competencies is more critical than ever. This training is a timely response to strengthen capacity at national, regional, and district levels and ensure consistent, high-quality delivery of immunization services across the country.

These modules, adapted from WHO global standards, are designed to address gaps in immunization service management and introduce practical innovations and best practices at all levels of Ghana’s health system.

To kick off the national rollout, GHS convened a five-day facilitators’ training workshop from 30 June to 4 July 2025. The workshop brought together facilitators drawn from the GHS, WHO, partner organizations and independent experts. These facilitators will, in turn, support regional and district-level trainings in the coming weeks, ensuring that the knowledge and skills cascade effectively to the frontlines of immunization delivery.

“This training couldn’t be more timely. We are in a moment where national and global priorities are aligned around improving the quality of immunization services, tackling zero-dose children, addressing equity gaps and integrating new vaccines. This training equips facilitators with the knowledge, tools, and interactive methods to train others effectively and sustainably”, Fred Osei-Sarpong, WHO Ghana Expanded Programme on Immunization Officer.

Participants at the workshop were introduced to a range of learning strategies including group discussions, simulations, and role-playing; tools that will help them adapt to different learner needs when training frontline staff across Ghana. 

Addressing participants, the Director of Public Health of the Ghana Health Service, Dr. Franklin Asiedu-Bekoe, underscored the importance of the training, highlighting the significant investment made and the vital role of immunization in public health.

“We cannot afford to treat this training as business as usual. Significant resources have been committed to strengthen the capacity of our health workforce and we must make it count. Immunization remains one of the most cost-effective public health interventions—we owe it to every child, every community, to deliver with excellence”.

The training also featured presence from the WHO Country Office. Officers from various technical programmes including EPI, EPR, Surveillance and Risk Communication actively supported the facilitation and coordination of the training. Their expertise enriched discussions and helped align the training content with WHO guidance and global best practices.

As Ghana prepares for the nationwide rollout of the MLM and IIP trainings, this facilitators’ workshop marks a major milestone. With stronger coordination between government, WHO, and partners, and renewed focus on building human resource capacity, the country is better positioned to close immunization gaps and ensure no child is left behind.

For Additional Information or to Request Interviews, Please contact:
Abdul-Lahie Abdul-Rahim Naa
Communications Officer
WHO Ghana Country Office
Email: abdullahiea [at] who.int (abdullahiea[at]who[dot]int)
Tel: +233 20 196 2393