Ghion Peace, Reconciliation and Development Association (GPRDA) successfully concluded a five-day intensive training on Trauma Informed Recovery and Resilience (TIRR) facilitation from July 6 to 10, 2026. The program brought together 15 trainees to prepare them for grassroots implementation in Dabat and Debark towns. Reflecting the community-centered approach of the initiative, the trainees represented a diverse spectrum of backgrounds, including religious leaders, health extension workers, internally displaced persons, town-level volunteers, teachers, and Women and Children Affairs Officers.
The curriculum progressed systematically through a dynamic five-day structure, beginning with foundational concepts of trauma, its various manifestations, and the guiding principles of Trauma-Informed Care on day one. In the second day, the training looked at ecological analysis of psychosocial needs while introducing trauma awareness and local coping mechanisms through the Yegarachin approach. The training continued on day three by focusing on identity dynamics, cycles of violence, and building essential group facilitation skills. Day four bridged individual trauma recovery with broader frameworks of transitional justice, reconciliation, and sustainable peace. In the final day, the training prioritized vital self-care strategies for facilitators and laid out concrete action plans for the upcoming eight-week community-based sessions.
The training program utilized participatory methodologies, including interactive presentations, peer-led group discussions, practical role-playing, and context-specific case studies. Beyond building technical capacity, the sessions established a trusted, reflective environment where participants could safely examine the intersection of personal healing and communal recovery. Equipped with comprehensive tools, localized methodologies, and robust self-care strategies, these 15 local facilitators are now fully prepared to roll out community-level TIRR sessions and drive meaningful peace and reconciliation forward across Dabat and Debark towns.
