Program Level Expansion

In recognition of the growing need for a broader spectrum of trained personnel, the FETP program expanded in 2017 with the introduction of the basic level, providing a strong foundation in epidemiology for early-career professionals. This expansion continued in 2021 with the launch of the intermediate level, bridging the gap between the basic and advanced levels and fostering a well-rounded public health workforce in Egypt.

Advanced Level

For the advanced level, up to the year 2024, 21 cohorts of total 174 epidemiologists have graduated. Now we are working with FETP cohort #22 (19 residents who are in their 1st year of training).

Residents who are selected for enrollment into FETP, follow the curriculum and receive a certificate of achievement upon satisfactory completion of the two-year training program.

Intermediate Level

The Intermediate level program was introduced in 2021 with collaboration with the Eastern Mediterranean Public Health Network’s (EMPHNET). Up to the year 2024, 2 cohorts of total 35 epidemiologists have graduated.

Basic Level

The basic program was initiated in 2017 in collaboration with EMPHNET as the Public Health Empowerment Program- Basic Field Epidemiology (PHEP-BFE).

For the Basic level, we succeeded in graduating 6 cohorts with 147 sanitarians, and 26 doctors at National, Intermediate and local levels. We are now working with the 7th cohort of the basic level with a special track (One Health).

Nationwide Reach

The Egypt FETP program demonstrates a strong commitment to nationwide coverage, ensuring representation from all Egyptian governorates. This comprehensive approach aims to:

  • Build a robust public health workforce across the country.
  • Strengthen public health capacity at all levels of the health system.
  • Address diverse public health challenges facing different regions.

By including participants from all central, directorate, and district levels within the Ministry of Health, the Egypt FETP program ensures that:

  • Decision-makers at all levels have access to the latest public health knowledge and skills.
  • Frontline workers are equipped with the tools and expertise to effectively respond to public health emergencies and implement effective interventions.
  • Knowledge and best practices are effectively disseminated throughout the health system.

This nationwide reach is crucial for building a resilient and sustainable public health system in Egypt, capable of effectively addressing current and emerging health challenges.

Diversifying Resident and Mentor Selection

The Egypt FETP program is expanding its selection criteria for residents and mentors to include a wider range of professionals from within and outside the Ministry of Health (MoHP). This strategic move aims to:

  • Foster intersectoral collaboration: By including professionals from sectors such as agriculture (veterinarians, environmental specialists), the environment, drug authorities, and food safety authorities, the program promotes a One Health approach to public health.
  • Leverage diverse expertise: Incorporating professionals from various departments within the MoHP, including surveillance, public health laboratories, environmental affairs, food and water safety, and vector control, brings a wealth of diverse expertise to the program.
  • Enhance the program's impact: Including professionals from different levels within the health system, such as sanitarians, IT specialists, and medical professionals, ensures that the program's benefits are disseminated throughout the entire health system.

This expanded selection process will not only enrich the learning experience for residents but also strengthen the overall capacity of the public health system in Egypt to address complex and multifaceted health challenges.

Expanding Specialized Tracks

Egypt FETP is expanding its curriculum to include specialized tracks, beginning with a focus on One Health. This innovative approach will equip trainees with a deeper understanding of the interconnectedness between human, animal, and environmental health.

Following the One Health track, the program will introduce specialized tracks in:

  • Mental Health: Addressing the growing burden of mental health disorders and integrating mental health considerations into all aspects of public health.
  • Vector-borne Diseases: Focusing on the epidemiology, control, and prevention of diseases transmitted by vectors such as mosquitoes, ticks, and fleas.
  • Immunization: Deepening understanding of vaccine-preventable diseases, immunization programs, and strategies to improve vaccine coverage and address vaccine hesitancy.
  • Non-communicable Diseases (NCDs): Focusing on the prevention and control of chronic diseases such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and cancer, including risk factor identification and interventions.

These specialized tracks will provide trainees with advanced knowledge and skills in their chosen area of focus, enhancing their ability to contribute significantly to public health initiatives and research.

The Impact of FETP Graduates on Leadership in Egypt's Preventive Medicine and Public Health Sector

Egypt FETP has significantly contributed to the development of strong leadership within Egypt's Ministry of Health. FETP graduates, with their rigorous training in epidemiology, public health surveillance, outbreak investigation, and research methodologies, have risen through the ranks to occupy key positions in the preventive medicine and public health sector.

The success of FETP graduates in leadership positions within Egypt's Ministry of Health demonstrates the significant return on investment of this program. By investing in the training of future leaders, Egypt is ensuring a strong and sustainable public health system capable of effectively addressing current and emerging public health challenges.