The NCDs and UHC Accelerator Programme Virtual Training 2020, a component of the NCD Alliance’s flagship Advocacy Institute took place in November, training 28 representatives of the 10 alliances participating in the NCDs and UHC Accelerator Programme from Egypt, Ghana, India, Japan, Kenya, Malaysia, Mexico, Rwanda, Tanzania and Vietnam. This training aimed to increase the capacity of established NCD alliances to drive effective in-country NCD and UHC advocacy by increasing their knowledge and skills on UHC for NCDs and people-centeredness, recognising opportunities during the COVID-19 context.

In light of COVID-19, this interactive training was delivered virtually and included four modules: global and regional advocacy agendas, health systems building blocks, healthcare workforce and access to NCD medicines, supplies and care. Coordinated by NCDA’s Capacity Development team, the training involved several members and supporters as faculty and expert speakers, including representatives of the Co-Chairs of UHC2030 and its Civil Society Engagement Mechanism, The George Institute, American College of Cardiology’s Global NCD Academy, Partners in Health, Coalition for Access to NCD Medicines and Products, South African NCD Alliance and people living with NCDs.

Overall, 91% of participants rated their experience as good/excellent. After completing the training, 96% of participants strongly agreed/agreed feeling confident in their knowledge of national, regional, and global advocacy opportunities on NCDs and UHC for NCDs; compared to only 60% before doing it. After completing the training, all participants strongly agreed/agreed feeling confident about their knowledge of the role played by civil society in UHC advocacy, and the opportunities at the global and regional levels to do so; compared to only 60% before doing it. This gives a positive signal that the objectives of the training were met and that participants found it useful for their in-country and regional advocacy efforts.

“Thank you! It was very positive to hear about the experiences that other countries are facing, as well as to learn from the experts who have participated in these sessions!” one participant commented. “I enjoyed my time learning and hope to be able to transfer this knowledge across and do more on NCD and UHC advocacy. Thank you so much.” another added.

For more information on the Advocacy Institute and the NCDs and UHC Accelerator Programme, please visit here.

Participation of alliances in this Programme is possible thanks to NCDA’s partnership with Access Accelerated, The Leona M. and Harry B. Helmsley Charitable Trust, and Viatris.