The Ministry of Health and Medical Services in Fiji, with support from the World Health Organization (WHO), is delivering a specialized training program on Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and data management for health professionals in the Eastern Division. This endeavor is part of the Strengthening Health Adaptation Project for Fiji (SHAPE), a comprehensive multi-year initiative funded by the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA).
Taking place in Tamavua, the training features the participation of 37 health professionals from five medical sub-divisions. The program focuses on equipping these participants with vital skills in data collection, analysis, and visualization, enhancing their capacity to efficiently plan, monitor, and make informed public health decisions. Attendees are engaged in mapping health facilities, analyzing environmental and epidemiological data, and applying GIS tools like QGIS. Additionally, the training covers advanced digital tools such as KOBO for effective field data collection, and instills knowledge about best practices in data quality, security, and integration.
This session marks the fourth and final phase of the training series, which has successfully equipped 130 health workers across Fiji, with a notable composition of 25% male and 75% female professionals, in foundational GIS and data management skills. The Ministry’s broader goal is to cultivate a climate-resilient health sector, capable of tracking disease trends, identifying vulnerable communities, and ensuring the effective allocation of resources.
This program underscores Fiji’s ongoing dedication to strengthening its health infrastructure and digital prowess. It is consistent with prior enhancement efforts by the Ministry, such as improving network connectivity for remote health facilities and integrating contemporary hardware and software systems. These measures reflect Fiji’s comprehensive strategy to bolster resilience against climate challenges while enhancing healthcare delivery through technological advancements.
Slated to conclude on September 25, 2025, the training encapsulates a forward-thinking approach to adopting modern technology for robust health systems. This initiative presents a promising outlook for public health management improvements in Fiji, highlighting a commitment to utilizing tech-driven solutions for a healthier future.