Successful Cameroon Workkshop Completed
10/9/2009
The Workshop, which was organised by Philippe Gerson from the French Radiographic Society (AFPPE) was a big success. Philippe was helped by his wife Frederique. Also in attendance was Katrin Sigurdardottir, Vice President of Europe/Africa. Twelve African countries were in attendance, not only from Central Africa, but also from West and East Africa.
Dominique Zerroug and Jocelyne Legoazigo ( Directors of French Radiography Schools ) did an excellent job as teachers and AFPPE representatives. They organised small workshops with fifteen people at maximum in the afternoons about hygiene and reading and interpreting radiographs.
One hundred radiographers were registered and registrations had to be stopped the regsitrations beacuse of the room size and for the budget.
There was two very intensive working days with papers being given in the morning and small workshops in the afternoon about hygene which is now a compulsory part of workshops in Africa due to the need to promote education with respect to Aids.
One very positive aspect was the differences seen between the first French African workshop in Cameroon which was held in 1997 and the workshop held now.
Registrants came fully prepared with with USB keys, very good presentations and on time..
Philippe was interviewed by the major TV station in Cameroon which has a link in all French and African speaking countries. In the interview he said that the new way of education in radiography for Cameroon is good and is supported by the ISRRT and AFPPE. He also said that this way must be extended to the Douala Aera ( economic capital ).In addition six televison stations ( national and from africa ) two radio stations and many newspapers reported the content of the workshop.
In 1995, in Cameroon, the School of Radiography was closed. However two years ago a Masters in Radiology at the University of Yaounde ( capital of Cameroon ) was started. The objective is to educate six radiographers with a master degree ( like a center of excellence). These six could then educate radiographers on a three years programm. This is very good news. The governement realise that they need qualified radiographers and the radiographers also have the support of the young radiologists.
In 1997 there were no CT scanners in Cameroon (Philippe's first visit).
In 2000 there were four CT scanners.
In 2009 there are now fifteen CT scanners.
An excellent job has been done during the past twelve years to improve work and to transmit education in Africa and the ISRRT would like to give thanks to Philippe Gerson and his associates for all the hard work they have done in that period.