From September 26 to 29, 2026, HelpAge International in Vietnam (HAI) successfully conducted a Training of Trainers (ToT) workshop in Ninh Binh province. Funded by the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) and supported by the Ninh Binh Association of the Elderly, the initiative aims to strengthen community-based care and promote active ageing for older people.
Strengthening Local Capacity for Community-Based Care
The four-day workshop welcomed 22 participants, including representatives from the Association of the Elderly and the local health sector from both provincial and grassroots levels. This diverse group gathered to share experiences, update their knowledge, and practice the essential skills required to establish, manage, and operate Intergenerational Self-Help Clubs (ISHCs) effectively in their local communities.
Throughout the course, the organizers applied a learner-centered approach by flexibly combining visual presentations, group discussions, interactive games, and mock teaching sessions. This methodology not only sparked enthusiasm and active participation among the trainees but also optimized knowledge retention. As a result, delegates had the opportunity to comprehensively consolidate their understanding of the Intergenerational Self-Help Club (ISHC) model, including its objectives, operational principles, organizational structure, and core activities. Furthermore, by practicing participatory training methods, participants collaboratively discussed and resolved real-life scenarios commonly encountered at the grassroots level while honing their master trainer skills. The hands-on process of developing content, preparing lectures, and receiving immediate in-class feedback helped the officials gradually refine their facilitation techniques, ensuring they are more confident in their community support efforts.
Enhancing Cross-Sector Collaboration and Refining Resources
Beyond skill-building, the workshop served as a vital platform for participants to provide practical feedback on the upcoming ISHC manual. Their grassroots insights will help the drafting team refine the document to better meet the actual needs of club management boards and local officials.
Furthermore, the joint participation of the Association of the Elderly and the health sector fostered a stronger collaborative foundation. This cross-sector partnership is crucial for maximizing the role of ISHCs in delivering comprehensive health support and encouraging the active participation of older persons within their communities.
By the end of the program, 100% of the participants reported feeling confident or very confident in the topics covered, expressing high satisfaction with the four-day curriculum. Equipped with new skills and knowledge, these master trainers are now ready to champion and expand the ISHC model in their localities. HelpAge International in Vietnam extends its sincere gratitude to UNFPA, the Ninh Binh Association of the Elderly, the Ninh Binh Department of Health, and all participants for their dedication and valuable contributions to advancing the rights and wellbeing of older people.
