According to Zimbabwe's Minister of Health and Child Care, Douglas Mombeshora, the country's health sector is falling behind in technological progress. Speaking on Mombeshora's behalf, acting Health Minister Paul Mavima stated that more needs to be done to keep pace with the rapidly evolving world of technology.
The launch of an e-learning platform for midwives at Chinhoyi Provincial Hospital represents a significant milestone, as it is the first of its kind in Zimbabwe. "Venturing into the digital realm with our first midwifery e-learning programme is indeed a very big feat," Mavima said, adding that it showcases the breadth and commitment to advancing healthcare education in the country.
Mavima emphasized the crucial role of e-learning, as it standardizes training across various institutions, ensuring uniformity and quality. Furthermore, it provides students and faculty with access to up-to-date resources and collaborative tools that transcend traditional classroom boundaries.
The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) country representative, Miranda Tabifor, praised the e-learning platform as a step towards empowering midwives with the knowledge and tools they need to provide comprehensive care. Tabifor noted that evidence consistently demonstrates that when midwives are well-equipped, trained to international standards, and adequate in number, they can provide up to 90% of integrated sexual and reproductive health services and avert two-thirds of preventable maternal and newborn deaths.
"In keeping with the technological developments and innovations, it is imperative that we embrace innovation to enhance the quality of midwifery education," Tabifor said. The e-learning system is an initiative of the Health Resilience Fund, a pool donor fund with contributions from the European Union, Ireland, Sweden, the United Kingdom, and Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance, with a total investment of US$273,000.
