Ethiopia Field Epidemiology and Laboratory Training Program Emerging as Model: Executive Director

Addis Ababa, July 9, 2025 (ENA) -- Ethiopia is forging a new path in public health with its Field Epidemiology and Laboratory Training Program (FELTP) emerging as a model that builds a resilient and well-equipped public health workforce, Program Executive Director Assegid Samuel said.

The initiative has enabled the training of more than 800 field epidemiologists—an achievement that places Ethiopia close to meeting the global health security workforce targets, the executive director added.

Currently offered in eight universities, the globally accredited initiative has continued to strengthen the country’s public health workforce, it was learned.

According to Assegid, the program plays a critical role in preparing field epidemiologists to tackle emerging health threats, disease outbreaks, and public health emergencies by producing adequate workforce that support emergency surveillance, management, and response systems.

Unlike many countries where such programs are heavily dependent on foreign donors, Ethiopia has taken full ownership, ensuring the program’s stability even in turbulent financial times, he revealed.

Ethiopia’s FELTP emphasis on teamwork ensures that public health challenges are tackled holistically, with seamless integration among different health professionals. 

“The majority of activities are conducted in a team-based approach. So you can’t talk about physicians, surgeons, or nurses alone — they all work together as a team,” the executive director stated.

Assegid said that the government’s commitment goes beyond words.

Over 42 vehicles have been deployed to support practical training, and substantial financial resources are allocated for investigations, surveillance, and data analysis at regional and national levels.

Moreover, FELTP’s impact extends beyond workforce development, with over 4,000 policy-informing research projects.

The executive director stressed that Ethiopia’s approach is a model for others.

“One of the best experiences in field epidemiology programs is government ownership. Unless the government owns any kind of system, it’s very difficult to have an adequate number of qualified professionals and address other issues.”

With strong links to international partners like CDC and WHO, Ethiopia’s FELTP is not only building national resilience but also contributing to regional and global health security, he noted.

 

Ethiopian News Agency
2023