Needs assessment survey for Master's of Science training in environmental health science in Swaziland

A needs assessment survey research was carried out for Master's of Science training in environmental health in Swaziland. The objective of the survey was to acquire information on training needs, gaps, options of specializations, program structure, courses, topics, and research areas that are relevant to the needs of the stakeholders and sector organizations related to environmental health. A document study, focus group discussion with key informants, stakeholder forum workshop, and needs assessment questionnaire to the wider stakeholders were used for the study described here. The findings of the authors' study point to a shortage of qualified personnel in environmental health; lack of capacity in strategy planning and project management; and lack of capacity in research, data collection, and environmental monitoring skills, among other things. A program structure that takes into account the multidisciplinary nature of environmental health with provisions for specialization was favored. Suggestions on course content, mode of delivery, and research topics to be addressed were also given.