A first introductory course in participatory epidemiology (PE) was organized by the Participatory Epidemiology Network for Animal and Public Health (PENAPH) and the African Field Epidemiology Network (AFENET) between 15 and 25 March 2010 in Arua, Uganda. The nineteen participants were second year students from the Ugandan Field Epidemiology and Laboratory Program (FELTP) and teaching staff from the School of Public Health, Makerere University.
The objectives of the course were as follows:
- To introduce the general principles of PE as well as specific tools;
- To promote community participation as part of field epidemiology;
- To promote the use of participatory disease surveillance as a component of comprehensive disease surveillance programs;
- To develop course materials that will serve as a reference handbook for trainees;
- To contribute to the sustainability of the AFENET – PENAPH collaboration by serving as an important public good outcome.
Two documents will result from the training materials developed: a training manual for trainers in PE and a module for the participants to have as a reference document. Once ready, the documents will be published online and shared with PE practitioners and trainers worldwide through the PENAPH community of practice.
As a follow up to the introductory course, the participants will conduct field work in small teams on a topic of their interest. A refresher course is scheduled for August 2010, during which the participants will present the findings of their field work and we will review some of the topics addressed during the introductory course.
PENAPH 
this will be mile stone in achieving the best surveillance system if community participation is ensured.we will be looking forward for your acheivments.
I am presently serving my sabbatical leave with with the AFENET/ CDC Animal-Human Interface Project Nigeria and we are presently developing a One Health Curriculum for the Nigeria FELTP. Participatory Epidemiology is one of the core courses been added to the NFELTP One Health curriculum.
Dr Olutayo Babalobi,
Veterinary Academic Consultant,
AFENET/Animal-Human Interface Project Nigeria,
Abuja, Nigeria.
26-January 2012
Dr Fashina A.B ;a master student at the university of Ibadan Nigeria.I’m presently doing my research project using P.E. approach.Hope many more vets in my country will soon begin to appreciate the importance of this approach in improving the livelihood of the people we help to manage their livestock problems.
Dear Dr. Fashina, Tell us the objective of your research project and how you will use PE at penaph.ning.com Have you joined the online community?