UNICEF boosts newborn survival: hands-on training for healthcare providers in Sistan and Baluchestan

To combat high rates of neonatal mortality, UNICEF Iran, alongside the Ministry of Health and Medical Education (MoHME), Zahedan University of Medical Sciences, and the Research Center for Children and Adolescents Health, organized two intensive neonatal health workshops in Saravan, Sistan and Baluchestan Province. Held on 1–2 and 3–4 December 2025, these sessions are central to UNICEF’s strategy to strengthen essential newborn care where it is needed most.

Strategic focus on life's critical "Golden Hours"

Saravan was prioritized for this capacity building because of its neonatal mortality rate (NMR) exceeding the national average, coupled with challenges like high staff turnover and a need for refreshed clinical skills. The training focused on the “Golden Hours”—the critical moments following birth when timely and skilled interventions drastically reduce preventable deaths and complications, ensuring the best possible start for every infant.

Practical skills for 70 frontline providers

The workshops provided hands-on, practical training to a total of 70 healthcare providers, including 40 midwives and 30 nurses from maternity and neonatal wards. Led by expert neonatologists, the curriculum covered crucial, life-saving techniques, including :

• Neonatal resuscitation
• Stabilization of critically ill newborns
• Management of premature infants
• Early complication detection and assessment
• Breastfeeding support

Through simulation-based exercises, participants enhanced their confidence and preparedness for real clinical scenarios.

Scaling up commitment across the province

Participant feedback confirmed the high value and relevance of the training in strengthening daily clinical practice. UNICEF Iran remains dedicated to supporting MoHME in expanding essential newborn care. Following the success in Saravan, UNICEF will support two more workshops in Zahedan on 14–15 and 16–17 December 2025, continuing to enhance the skills of healthcare providers and secure better health outcomes for the youngest members of the community.