Capacity Building Training for MERF Staff on Maternal and Child Nutrition in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa

MERF conducted a capacity-building training for its staff under the ongoing Nutrition Project being implemented across 13 districts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa — including Peshawar, Kohat, Kurram, Hangu, Orakzai, DI Khan, Tank, South Waziristan, North Waziristan, Bannu, Lakki Marwat, Karak, and Khyber.

The training session brought together health professionals and project staff to strengthen their skills and knowledge in providing essential primary health care and nutrition services to pregnant and lactating women and children under two years of age in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. Participants engaged in interactive discussions and practical exercises focused on nutrition screening, counseling, and the distribution of specialized nutritious food at facilitation centers established in designated hospitals. Emphasis was placed on promoting social and behavior change communication at the community level to increase awareness and demand for services, while also ensuring transparency and accountability in cash transfer disbursements through client-centered monitoring mechanisms. The collaborative environment of the training encouraged participants to share experiences and best practices, fostering a stronger commitment to improving maternal and child health outcomes under the Benazir Nashonuma Stunting Prevention Program.