In 2024, Kentalis International Foundation first started working in Cameroon in collaboration with local partner organization Cameroon Baptist Convention Health Services (CBCHS). CBCHS had reached out to us regarding their concern around literacy skills in learners with hearing loss. Together, we work on building capacity among professionals in the field of deaf education.
Project: train-the-trainer program in literacy for deaf learners
In early 2024, the Cameroon Baptist Convention Health Services (CBCHS) approached us with a request to develop a collaborative training program for professionals in deaf and inclusive education in Cameroon. The primary focus of this initiative is to enhance the literacy development of children with hearing loss.
In partnership with CBCHS, we implemented our training program Reading Method for Early Literacy. This initiative began in October 2024 with the training of 12 dedicated professionals. These individuals were not only equipped with the necessary skills but also coached to further train teachers in this innovative method.
By November 2024, a group of teachers gathered to delve into the Reading Method. They first explored the theoretical foundations before moving on to practical applications. The practical part of the training was conducted by the initial group of 12 professionals, in collaboration with experts from Kentalis International Foundation.
The entire training program used a blended format, combining online e-learning with in-person sessions held in Yaoundé, Cameroon.
Following this training program, together with CBCHS, we aim for a sustainable embedding of the methodology in the national curriculum to reach our common goal: fostering long-term improvements in literacy education for children with hearing loss.
Project facts:
- Timing: August 2024 – December 2024
- Location: Netherlands (online) and Yaoundé, Cameroon
- Funded by: Stichting Vrienden van Effatha and Cameroon Baptist Convention Health Services (CBCHS)
- Partner: CBCHS