In Uganda last week, a 2-day workshop brought together various professional associations, regulatory bodies, and training institutions to enhance collaboration and strengthen rehabilitation professions. The focus was on implementing the International Rehabilitation and Education Toolkit (IRETT) to leverage interprofessional collaboration as a means of strengthening workforce development activities in the country.
The importance of a robust and united rehabilitation workforce can not be overstated, especially in meeting the increasing demand for rehabilitation services, particularly in regions with limited resources. This workshop aimed to foster effective interdisciplinary collaboration, a crucial step in achieving this goal. Led by Physiopedia’s Herbert Omoding, Yara Perterko, and Larisa Hoffman the workshop gathered 24 participants representing Uganda Association of Physiotherapy, Speech and Language Association of Uganda, Uganda Association of Occupational Therapy, Uganda Association of Orthopaedic Technology, Allied Health Professions Council, Mbarara University, St Michael Lubaga Hospital Training School and the Uganda Institute of Allied Health and Management Sciences.
During the workshop, the IRETT Professionalisation and Regulation Reflection Tool (PRRT) was utilised to address disparities in educational standards within Uganda’s rehabilitation professions. Additionally, the IRETT Academic Program Reflection Tool (APRT) was used to develop learning outcomes, curricular models, and course syllabi.
Notable highlights of the workshop included a presentation by Samantha Shann, President of the World Federation of Occupational Therapy (WFOT), who shared global perspectives and resources to advocate for local professions. Discussions revolved around establishing a School of Rehabilitation Studies, strategies to alleviate the human resources burden in professional programmes, and enhancing curriculum.
The success of the workshop was attributed to the active participation of attendees who collectively envisioned sustaining future collaborations. Ongoing efforts, including regular meetings with international mentors, will continue to use the IRETT to advance these collaborative initiatives over the coming year.
