Speech and language professionals in Uganda recently enhanced their clinical expertise in managing speech and feeding disorders in children with cerebral palsy during a two-day clinical workshop organised by ReLAB-HS.
In Uganda, opportunities for face-to-face clinical training for speech and language professionals are limited. Thanks to funding from USAID, the Uganda Speech and Language Therapy Association (USALTA), with the support of ReLAB-HS, hosted a two-day clinical skills training focused on cerebral palsy rehabilitation. Held at the Mulago Cerebral Palsy Clinic in June 2024, the event gathered 12 USALTA speech and language therapy professionals. Facilitators included Physiopedia team members Herbert Omoding and Angela Patterson, alongside local mentor and cerebral palsy expert, Murungi Gamukama, who played a crucial role in delivering the training and coordinating live case study sessions with clients.
The workshop aimed to enhance participants’ skills in managing speech and feeding disorders in children with cerebral palsy. It was part of a larger blended learning programme, with participants completing the Physiopedia Plus (Plus) Cerebral Palsy Programme online prior to the in-person session. This online preparation helped participants strengthen their theoretical knowledge before applying practical, hands-on skills in a group setting.
During the workshop, five paediatric live case studies allowed attendees to work together on assessments and hands-on interventions. This collaborative approach encouraged broader discussions and deeper learning about the cases presented.
One of the key topics covered was the significance of collaboration among various rehabilitation professionals and how interdisciplinary teams can enhance patient care. Participants expressed enthusiasm for continuing their speech and language education on the Plus platform and attending more in-person training sessions. Following this successful event, USALTA plans to offer additional professional development opportunities for speech therapists in Uganda, which the participants are looking forward to.
As a result of the workshop, new connections were formed between speech and language professionals and local families affected by cerebral palsy, fostering stronger interventions within their communities. This initiative is expected to lead to further professional development activities through USALTA, strengthening the support available to speech and language therapists across Uganda.
