CHAPS facilitates high-impact training of healthcare providers in VMMC across the country. We focus on providing surgical training using the Dorsal Slit Method, as recommended by WHO, mandated by PEPFAR and adopted as the preferred method for SA by the NDoH. All trainees are required to complete an online training course that comprises multiple modules relevant to VMMC implementation on the Online Training Hub (OTH). It enables learning at the trainee’s pace and can be done on any device or computer. After completion of the online course, trainees attend an in-person 5-day training course. The time dedicated to practical training is determined by the provider’s level of competency.

The first 2 days of the course is dedicated to the theory, including practising on anatomical penile models tailored to VMMC training. The following topics are covered:

The following 3 days comprise the practical component where the surgical procedure is performed on patients, with supportive supervision from the qualified Master Trainers. The trainee healthcare professional is familiarised with all aspects of service provision including anaesthesia and AE management, towards the successful completion of a circumcision.

Certificate of proficiency
A certificate of proficiency is provided once all minimum criteria have been met, which includes a minimum of 10 successful MMCs. CPD points are also earned by trained medical doctors and Clinical Associates.

CHAPS further provides a 3-day Refresher Training for healthcare professionals previously certified in VMMC practice. The refresher course covers any new developments in the field policy updates from NDoH, WHO and/or PEPFAR, and dedicated practice on 5 clients.
The refresher training includes a briefing on Continuous Quality Assurance (CQI) and guidelines on using CQI materials.