The Level C Trainer of Trainers (ToT) course, organized by the GFARC, IFRC Asia Pacific Regional Office and the Singapore Red Cross, has made significant strides in enhancing the capacity of first aid trainers across Southeast Asia. This initiative, aims to strengthen the region’s first aid training capabilities and build a sustainable network of trainers in the region.

A Key Step in Regional Capacity-Building

This ToT course is part of an ongoing capacity-building effort for Southeast Asian NS. It responds to a critical objective established during the 2nd Southeast Asia First Aid Network Meeting (SEAFAN) held in September 2024. The goal is to increase the number of skilled first aid trainers at the regional level, ultimately fostering collaboration, capacity-building and expertise across the region.

The training saw the participation of 10 National Societies (Singapore, Lao, Thailand, Indonesia, Brunei, Timor Lest, Malaysia, Myanmar, Philippines and Hong Kong) conducted by two experienced GFARC Master Educators from the Singapore Red Cross and the Hong Kong S.A.R. Branch RCSC.

Course Focus and Objectives

The activities within the ToT course are designed to enhance the skills and knowledge already acquired by participants through their previous experience as first aid trainers. In addition to technical proficiency, the course focuses on expanding participants’ coaching and mentoring capabilities, skills essential for supporting and guiding future first aid trainer candidates.

A significant highlight of this ToT was the opportunity to test the new and updated resources produced by GFARC and the pool of GFARC Master Educators. This ensured that the training content was relevant, engaging and aligned with the latest first aid guidelines.

Key Objectives of the ToT Course

• Support National Societies: In collaboration with the Asia Pacific Regional Office and Singapore Red Cross, the course aimed to assist National Societies in implementing regional ToT programs.
• Increase the Number of Skilled Trainers: The course sought to increase the number of Level B, C and D first aid trainers across Southeast Asia, ensuring a sustainable and skilled workforce capable of meeting future needs.
• Strengthen Relationships: The course aimed to deepen relationships with National Societies in the region, particularly with Singapore and APRO, who co-organized the ToT alongside GFARC.
• Prepare Future Trainers: The ToT course focused on preparing experienced first aid trainers for the vital role of Trainer of Trainers (ToT), allowing them to mentor and develop future trainers in their communities and countries.

Building a Stronger Network for the Future

The ToT initiative plays a vital role in building a robust network of qualified first aid trainers across Southeast Asia. By strengthening the training capacity of National Societies, this initiative ensures that communities in the region will benefit from enhanced first aid education and disaster preparedness. The successful completion of this course marks a significant step towards greater regional collaboration and more sustainable first aid training systems.