STDC Agra ensures uniform training covering over a thousand STS through meticulous planning

BACKGROUND:

The National Strategic Plan (NSP) 2017–2025 of the NTEP emphasizes that an "adequately staffed, trained, and motivated health workforce is essential to achieving the ambitious goal of ending TB.” In line with this vision, the NTEP envisaged the STDCs playing a significant role in building capacities of the NTEP cadres, General Health System and Private health care facilities/providers, along with SM&E of the programme and Operational Research. A key focus of the training strategy defined in the NSP for the programme is to not only to close gaps by addressing the need for a fully trained workforce but also to create a sustainable model that keeps staff updated on evolving policies and guidelines. This ensures the continuous flow of accurate information across all levels of NTEP personnel.

The Guidelines and Norms for STDCs in NTEP 2023, further underscore this responsibility, stating that ‘STDCs are expected to build the capacity of HRs in the programme, i.e., NTEP key personnel, general health system, medical college faculty and private health sector in relation to programme operations so that they are able to effectively deliver TB services and execute the roles expected from them.’ The guidelines recommend regular in-depth training at the time of staff induction, supplemented by updates as needed. Moreover, STDCs are tasked with preparing comprehensive training calendars annually and supporting district-level planning to align with the state’s Program Implementation Plan (PIP).

Recognizing this critical role, STDC Agra, meticulously planned and executed the uniform training of all 1017 Senior Treatment Supervisors (STS) in a two-year period, in line with the Guidelines and Norms for STDCs 2023. This document outlines the meticulous approach taken by STDC Agra to achieve this, highlighting the key steps in planning and delivering effective training that aligns with national priorities.