Health Minister Calls for Strengthening Field Epidemiology Workforce to Tackle Global Health Threats

Addis Ababa, July 2, 2025 (ENA) -- The Minister of Health Dr. Mekdes Daba emphasized urgent need to strengthen the field epidemiology workforce to effectively combat global health threats.

The 4th Ethiopia Field Epidemiology and Laboratory Training Program (FELTP) and Scientific Conference is underway in Addis Ababa from July 1st to 4th, 2025, at the Adwa Victory Memorial Museum under the theme: “Public Health in a Rapidly Changing World: The Role of the Field Epidemiology Workforce in Health Sector Transformation.”

In her opening address to the conference, Dr. Mekdes praised the FELTP program, which trains public health professionals to detect and respond to health emergencies.

The minister emphasized that graduates from this program are essential for timely and effective responses to communities.

 

Stating the program's success in building local capacity, which is vital for health security, the minister stressed that "learning by doing" approach allows trainees to engage directly in outbreak investigations and data analysis.

Dr. Mekdes also affirmed the government's commitment to ongoing professional development and the integration of research into practice.

She also noted the growing role of digital technology and data management in epidemiology, encouraging innovation in surveillance and response.

The minister noted that field epidemiologists must prepare themselves for new challenges as we move post COVID-19, mentioning that various other infectious and non-infectious diseases have arisen.

Kora Tushune, State Minister of Education, stated that the existing health system cannot be improved merely by closing borders.

 

He added it requires integration into the health system, and a health curriculum that aligns with international standards is essential.

Ethiopia is making every effort to enhance and develop training facilities that align with global standards, suited to present circumstances and can address various health-related challenges, he said.

Director General of the Ethiopian Public Health Institute (EPHI), Mesay Hailu characterized the Ethiopian epidemiology and laboratory training program as a pivotal initiative aimed at equipping public health professionals with the skills to address real public health challenges through epidemiological methods.

 

He stated that the program has strengthened public health systems and security by enabling faster responses to health concerns.

The program facilitated informed decision-making through research and investigation, he added.

Patrick Okumu Abok, World Health Organization’s (WHO) Team Leader for the Emergency Preparedness and Response Cluster in Ethiopia noted that the initiative was established to improve emergency health response standards.

 

According to him, the program was designed to provide practical training in field epidemiology, which has led to a significant progress in Ethiopia's fight against infectious diseases such as cholera, measles, and malaria.

The conference showcased Ethiopia's commitment to advancing public health amid global challenges.

Participants of the conference included representatives from WHO, Africa CDC, donors, partner universities and colleges, as well as private and non-governmental health organizations to foster collaborations, and tackle pressing issues such as climate change and digital health.