By Gabriel Ameh, The Sight News
The National Senior Citizens Center (NSCC), in collaboration with the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE) and Skills Nigeria Limited, has launched its inaugural training program for Quality Assurance Assessors (QAA) in geriatric social care.
This initiative which took off on Wednesday 21st August 2024 in Abuja, aims to certify professionals in the specialized field of geriatric care, ensuring that the highest standards are met in providing social support and services to the elderly.
The program marks a significant step forward in addressing the growing need for skilled caregivers in Nigeria’s aging population, with a focus on quality and professionalism in service delivery.
Speaking at the event, the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Mohammed Ali, who was represented by the Director and Head Gender, Adolescent, School Health and Elderly Division, Dr. John Ovuorage, stated that the inauguration of this Quality Assurance Assessor (QAA) training program, in collaboration with the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE) and Skills Nigeria Limited, is a testament to the commitment of elevating the standards of geriatric social care in Nigeria.
In his words, “We are not just launching a training program, we are laying the foundation for a future where our elderly citizens are cared for with the utmost dignity, respect, and professionalism”.
Prof. Ali further said that as Nigeria’s population ages, the demand for specialized care services is increasing, and with it comes the need for trained professionals who are not only compassionate but also skilled in delivering high-quality care,
He, however, noted that Geriatric social care is a field that requires a unique set of skills and a deep understanding of the physical, emotional, and social needs of the elderly.
“This certification program is designed to equip you, our esteemed trainees, with the necessary tools to assess and ensure that these needs are met to the highest standards. Your role as Quality Assurance Assessors will be pivotal in setting benchmarks for care, identifying areas for improvement, and ensuring that our elderly citizens receive the best possible support”, he said.
He further stated that this training program represents a significant milestone in our collective efforts to build a society that values and cares for its elderly population.
“The knowledge and skills you acquire here will not only benefit you professionally but will also make a profound difference in the lives of the elderly individuals you serve. You are not just trainees; you are future leaders in the field of geriatric care, and the impact of your work will be felt for generations to come”, he added.
Speaking also at the event, the Permanent Secretary Federal Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Mr Abel Enitan who was represented by Mr Peter Audu, Acting Director Social Development Federal Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, who stated that the certification program is not just about acquiring new skills; it is about setting a new standard for how they care for the senior citizens.
“As Quality Assurance Assessors, you will play a vital role in ensuring that the services provided to our elderly meet the highest levels of excellence and compassion”, he said.
On her part, the Director General, National Senior Citizens Center (NSCC), Dr. Emem Omokaro in her welcome address and overview of NSCC, stated that the Center’s mission goes beyond just providing services, adding that it is about transforming the narrative around aging and ensuring that our senior citizens receive the highest standard of care, respect, and support.
While noting that the program is a significant step in realizing that mission, she said that the program, in collaboration with the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE) and Skills Nigeria Limited, is designed to equip professionals with the skills and knowledge necessary to assess, monitor, and enhance the quality of geriatric care services across Nigeria.
Speaking on the Overview of NSCC Programs, Dr. Omokaro stated that the Center’s programs are rooted in a deep understanding of the diverse needs of senior citizens, hence their initiatives span multiple domains, including health care, social protection, economic empowerment, and legal rights.
“We have been actively working to create a robust framework that addresses the challenges faced by our elderly population, from access to quality health care to the protection of their rights in society. One of our key focus areas is the development of geriatric care services that are not only accessible but also of the highest quality. The QAA training program you are part of today is integral to this focus”, she said.
