Outcomes and Lessons Learned From Immunization in Practice Training.

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Medical Education
• Global Health

Background:

• Immunization service delivery in Iraq's Kurdistan Region is hindered by workforce shortages and inadequate training.
• Most vaccinators lack formal training, leading to knowledge and skill gaps.
• The Kurdistan Region Ministry of Health, with UNICEF support, implemented World Health Organization Immunization in Practice (IIP) training.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess knowledge improvement among vaccinators after IIP training.
• To analyze participant feedback on the training sessions.
• To evaluate the training modality based on adult learning principles.

Main Methods:

• A retrospective quantitative study analyzed 23 IIP training sessions (October 2024-January 2025) involving 474 vaccinators.
• Data collected via pre- and post-tests, feedback forms, and training observations.
• Quantitative data analyzed using descriptive statistics and paired t-tests; qualitative data provided context.

Main Results:

• Significant immediate knowledge score improvements were observed in both Erbil (+4.20 points) and Sulaymaniyah (+3.31 points) (p < 0.001).
• Participant feedback was largely positive, particularly regarding trainer performance.
• Areas for improvement included content relevance, technical clarity, and the training environment.

Conclusions:

• IIP training effectively enhanced vaccinators' immediate knowledge and was positively received.
• Future training should incorporate more skill-based activities and a learner-centered approach.
• Improving logistical preparedness is crucial for maximizing the impact and sustainability of immunization workforce training.