You are here:

Strengthening TB Response: Union’s 32nd International Course Wraps Up in Cotonou

Published on

Updated:

The Union’s flagship training course on tuberculosis control marked a significant milestone with the successful completion of its 32nd edition in Cotonou, Benin. Bringing together health professionals from across six countries, the course combined online learning with intensive in-person training, reaffirming the Union’s commitment to strengthening TB response through capacity building and international collaboration.

Group photo

The in-person component of the 32nd edition of the Cours International sur la Lutte contre la Tuberculose successfully concluded on 24 September 2025 in Cotonou, Benin, after eight days of intensive, hands-on training. Organised by The Union in collaboration with Benin’s Ministry of Health through its National TB Programme, and DRAF TB, the course brought together 11 participants from six countries. Despite global funding constraints affecting international training opportunities, the course demonstrated strong regional commitment to capacity building and TB control.

Participants took part in group exercises, plenary discussions, and field visits to local health facilities, applying their learning in real-world settings. The course achieved a 14% average improvement in post-test scores, underscoring its effectiveness and value in strengthening TB control capacity.

Field work

Participant Feedback Highlights Course Impact 

Feedback from participants underscored several aspects of the course that were particularly valued: 

  • Field visits offered practical insights into operational realities such as patient intake and TB screening. As one participant shared, “The field visit allowed me to gain new experiences on the operational level, including intake and screening.” 

  • Practical exercises and group discussions helped consolidate learning and foster collaboration. 

  • Encouragement to strive for excellence inspired participants to deepen their commitment to TB control. 

  • Exchange of experiences between National TB Programmes enabled participants to compare strategies and challenges across countries. 

  • Knowledge sharing across borders enriched discussions and broadened perspectives thanks to the diversity of participants. 

  • In-person format was widely appreciated for facilitating relationship-building and enhancing the overall learning experience.   

The first part of the course was delivered online over an eight-week period, from 29 April to 17 June 2025, using a combination of synchronous and asynchronous formats.

The Union extends its sincere thanks to all facilitators, partners—including the Agence Française de Développement (AFD), the Canton of Vaud—and participants for contributing to the success of this edition.

Field visit