Through the GHS model we work within communities to strengthen human resource networks and resolve health disparities. We first educate local youth through a science-based, regionally sensitive health curriculum and than involve them in civic engagement projects, cultivating them as local leaders. At the same time we connect local youth with opportunities to use their new skills in local organizations while working alongside international mentors. This pathway establishes health values at a young age, shifting how health behaviors are established and rearranges communication about health within social networks. We enable participatory education and civic engagement to strengthen national capacities.
The GHS model focuses on three interconnected programs: Young Scholars, Research Associate and Institutional Strengthening.
The entrance point for youth in West Africa to be involved in the GHS model begins with the Young Scholars program. After graduating from the Young Scholars program, participants can pursue involvement in the Research Associate program and/or Institutional Strengthening program depending on that individual’s academic and career track. Our GHS model is committed to youth empowerment through education, emphasizing student progression into leadership roles.
Students in West Africa who continue involvement with WAMM throughout their first initial year, Young Scholars, have the opportunity to continue their involvement with the organization as second year Scholars. Second year Scholars engage in additional projects that foster their ability to conduct, coordinate and managing clinical, public health and institutional research projects. Third year students earn the distinction of Senior Scholars. They are responsible for managing the Young Scholars program alongside WAMM staff. After the third year students are eligible to become Program Assistants.
As Program Assistants students become eligible to be involved in our Research Associate and Institutional Strengthening programs. Depending on a student’s drive and dedication to WAMM operations, Program Assistants can become Program Managers or Administrators.
Program Managers are responsible for managing 2-3 projects at one time. Their projects might be income generating activities like language and computer training workshops for expats & community members, health outreach projects like operating a one day maternal child health clinic, or research projects such as community food access assessments.
Program Administrators are responsible for specific sectors of in-country programing. They manage specific activities falling under their sector. Program Administrators also have to spend at least three months acting as our local lead operators in either Freetown, Kenema or Kono.
