Education model for building health care capacity in protracted refugee contexts : policy brief

Abstract

Reliance on humanitarian NGOs for health care in protracted displacement situations like Dadaab is not sustainable. Refugees need to be equipped to play a greater role in providing primary health care for their communities. Findings of project research clearly indicated overwhelming support for the development of a health-related degree, with most prospective students and community health workers expressing interest in taking the degree. As a result, a BSc degree in Community Health Education has been developed and ready for implementation. This policy brief highlights the importance of developing education models aimed at addressing health and higher education equity issues in protracted refugee situations.