Pacific: Training-of-trainers in “Training and communication techniques”

From February to May 2022, 10 experts from Fiji and Papua New Guinea took part in training-of-trainers on communication methods, supported through the EU-funded Fit For Market SPS programme. The training in Fiji was face-to-face; in Papua New Guinea it had to be conducted remotely due to government restrictions.

In May, the experts in both countries followed the second phase of this training – to master digital tools, and to be able to facilitate remote training sessions.

Conducting remote training sessions requires trainers to be creative and solution-oriented. The more fun your exercises are, the better you motivate your group! Learning through gaming is key for remote sessions.

Ms. Alfatina Tawake, a participant from Fiji, said “so much interesting stuff to learn in such a short time. We are enjoying our sessions and at the same time hands on practice. Ernest is amazing with so much patience. We know we are in good hands.”

The experts taking part follow the online sessions and put their learning into practice through exercises. A “sandbox” was created on Moodle for participants to practice. They were asked to create quizzes, H5P activities, homework, facilitating an ice breaking session online, etc. Role plays were organised so that the experts could facilitate a digital training sequence themselves.

Mr. Gure’ahafo Tumae, a participant from Papua New Guinea, said “it has been a hectic 2 months for the TOT to conclude today eventually. Ernest was superb in getting us through to the end. I want to thank you and the team at COLEACP for the opportunity to undergo this training.”

This activity is supported by the Fit For Market SPS programme, implemented by COLEACP within the Framework of Development Cooperation between the Organisation of African, Caribbean and Pacific States (OACPS) and the European Union.