ADDIS ABABA – From January 27–30, 2026, the Ethiopian Red Cross Society (ERCS) convened a pivotal workshop at the ERCS Training Center to finalize the revision of the First Aid Training of Trainers (FA TOT) Curriculum and Manual.

This four-day event brought together 24 experts (six female), including representatives from the Government Hospital, ERCS HQ, and AutRC, the Sky Bird II program (funded by the Austrian Development Agency as part of International Partnerships Austria) and delegates from branches and different regions across Ethiopia.

Why the Change?

The existing training manual had served the organization well for a decade but needed updating to meet modern medical standards and field realities. The primary goal of this revision was to ensure that ERCS first aid training is not only technically sound but also PGI-sensitive (Protection, Gender, and Inclusion).

By integrating DAPS principles (Dignity, Access, Participation, and Safety), the new curriculum ensures that first aid services are accessible and respectful to all people, regardless of their gender, age, or physical ability.

Highlights from the Workshop

The workshop was highly participatory, moving beyond lectures to intensive group work and practical critiques:

• Gender-Transformative Care: Participants worked to embed protection and safety protocols into every module, including specific guidance on supporting SGBV (Sexual and Gender-Based Violence) survivors and improving maternal health care during emergencies.
• Gap Analysis: Technical groups reviewed draft curriculum and manual on paediatric emergencies, acute abdomen care, and poisoning to align them with the latest Ministry of Health standards.
• Inclusive Tools: New tools were proposed, such as "flashcards" to help first responders communicate with individuals who have hearing or speech impairments.
• Practical Testing: The final day featured a "test-run" facilitation skill training. This allowed trainers to practice the new modules and provide immediate feedback on the flow and practicality of the materials.

Voices from the Event

During the opening remarks, Temesgen Abebe (AutRC ETH Representative) noted that this was a "long process to set up" but essential for creating a manual that will serve the country for the next five to ten years. Our EMS Advisor Rebecca Thomas (AutRC HQ) emphasized the importance and shift toward a more practical, feasible, facilitator-friendly manual that moves away from heavy theory toward hands-on skills.