The Wellbeing Foundation Africa (WBFA), in collaboration with Newborn Essential Solutions and Technology (NEST360) and the Solina Centre for International Development and Research (SCIDaR), is advancing newborn healthcare in Nigeria through the Neonatal Jaundice Screening, Treatment, and Kernicterus Prevention Program Project Oscar – Light for Life, funded by Reckitt.
As part of this project, from February 24th to 28th, 2025, healthcare professionals in Lagos Nigeria were trained in intensive hands-on learning aimed at improving newborn survival rates through early detection and management of neonatal conditions.
Upskilling Healthcare Professionals with Improved Knowledge
The training aimed to equip frontline healthcare workers with practical knowledge and technical skills to enhance newborn care. It was delivered through the Essential Newborn Care Course (ENCC) and the Comprehensive Newborn Care Course (CNCC), with SCIDaR leading the ENCC sessions and NEST360 handling CNCC. Designed for healthcare professionals across primary, secondary, and tertiary levels, the sessions provided targeted learning experiences to strengthen newborn care practices. Hosted at the NEST360 Training Centre, this first batch of training will be followed by a second round, along with step-down sessions led by those already trained, ensuring a lasting impact and broader reach within the healthcare system.
– NEST360 provided in-depth training to 24 professionals from tertiary and secondary hospitals, focusing on neonatal management and comprehensive newborn care.
– SCIDaR trained 34 healthcare workers from primary healthcare facilities, focusing on early diagnosis and treatment of newborn-related complications.
Learning for Real-World Impact
Participants engaged in practical exercises designed to bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and clinical application.
Dr. Olatunji Tolulope, Course Director, highlighted the significance of experiential learning: “It’s one thing to understand the concepts, but the real impact comes from hands-on training. Working with mannequins and simulation tools ensures that healthcare workers can confidently apply these life-saving techniques in their facilities.”
At one of the training centers in Ikeja, Dr. Iretiola Fajolu, Neonatologist and Associate Professor of Paediatrics at Lagos University Teaching Hospital (LUTH) emphasized the importance of early intervention: “Recognizing symptoms early and responding appropriately can mean the difference between life and severe complications. This training ensures that frontline workers are prepared to act swiftly and effectively.”
Scaling Knowledge Through Peer Learning
A key component of this project is its sustainability plan. Trained healthcare workers are now responsible for cascading knowledge within their respective institutions. By mentoring their peers and implementing structured action plans, they will create a wider impact beyond the initial training sessions.
Dr. Opeyemi Odedere, Country Director for NEST360, reiterated the value of collaboration: “The success of this initiative lies in the power of partnerships. By working together, we are building a healthcare system that ensures every newborn gets the best possible start in life.”
Mr. Williams Awotunde, WBFA’s Director of Programmes, reinforced the program’s broader vision: “By strengthening the capacity of healthcare workers, we are not only addressing immediate challenges but also laying the foundation for long-term improvements in maternal and newborn health.”
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