An official ceremony at Eduardo Mondlane University in Maputo marked the start of the academic year for the Master’s in Pediatric and Neonatal Emergencies, promoted by the same university in collaboration with the University of Padua, the Catholic University of Mozambique (UCM), and coordinated by Doctors with Africa Cuamm.
Launched for the first time in the autumn of 2022, the Master’s program has now reached its second edition. It offers an important opportunity for advanced training and hands-on field learning for the 15 professionals admitted. All participants come from medical backgrounds: nine are technicians and nurses, and six are doctors with training in pediatrics and neonatology.
They come from different provinces of Mozambique — Nampula, Zambézia, Manica, Sofala, and Maputo — and share the goal of strengthening their skills to improve the quality of care for children and newborns in the country’s health facilities.
During the ceremony, Professor Jahit Sacarlal, Dean of the Faculty of Medicine at UEM, emphasized that the program aims to train professionals capable not only of acting in clinical settings but also of developing strong research skills:
“This master’s program will stimulate scientific production through new insights and provide students with the tools to conduct field research, critically analyze evidence, and propose innovative solutions. It is an opportunity to enhance their ability to research, observe, and understand the real needs of the health system.”
Professor Daniele Trevisanuto, from the University of Padua and Director of the Master’s program, also expressed satisfaction at the start of the new academic year:
“I extend my best wishes to the students and professionals embarking on this journey. Their motivation and commitment are a tangible sign of dedication to improving neonatal and child care in Mozambique.”
The ceremony was also attended by Dr. Tufaria Mussà, from the Faculty of Medicine at UEM, and Dr. Kajal, representing UCM Beira, who both highlighted the importance of inter-university collaboration and the strengthening of specialized training in the country.
During the event, students had the opportunity to introduce themselves, expressing enthusiasm and gratitude for the chance to join such a high-level program that integrates theory, practice, and field research.
This course, funded by the Italian Ministry of University and Research (MUR), represents a significant step in strengthening pediatric and neonatal competencies in Mozambique and stands as a virtuous example of collaboration between Mozambican and Italian academic institutions. Investing in the training of qualified professionals means laying the foundations for a stronger health system capable of effectively responding to emergencies and ensuring every child’s right to quality care.
