UN INIA International Training Programme in Social Gerontology : 14 - 25 February 2011, Malta

BACKGROUND
The dramatic and unprecedented increase in the number and proportion of older persons in the World will lead to unique political, economic and social consequences. In developing countries, where by the year 2025, seventy-two per cent of the World’s older persons will live, this demographic development will pose a particular challenge. Although a number of developing countries have initiated various innovative and concrete measures aimed at meeting the needs of older persons, there exists an acute shortage of trained care-givers at all levels in the field of Gerontology.

OBJECTIVES
This multi-disciplinary Training Programme in Social Gerontology, designed by an International Expert Group, aims at providing a broad and up-to-date understanding of the complex and far-reaching consequences of mass longevity. Participants are helped to evolve and implement appropriate policies, which will ensure for older persons, a high quality of life in their own society.

AREAS OF CONCENTRATION
The programme consists of lectures, site visits and workshops. Topics dealt with include: Basic Concepts in Social Gerontology; Demographic Determinants and Consequences; Socio-Cultural Changes and their Impact; Economics of Ageing; Environment and Ageing; Health Aspects of Ageing; Social Care in the Family; Community and Institutions and the Needs of Special Concern Groups. Candidates will also be given an opportunity to pursue one of the following skills: Social Policy Development; Community Development Programmes and Services and Health Promotion and Disease Prevention.

WHO SHOULD ATTEND THIS COURSE
Applications are invited from social workers and trainers in the field of Ageing in developing countries. Applicants should have one of the following pre-requisites:
1. Be directly engaged in social service delivery for older persons in the statutory, voluntary or private sectors in their own country.
2. Be trainers with a potential to provide leadership in securing a better social service delivery system to older persons.
3. Be active in awareness development in the field of ageing.

APPLICATION PROCEDURE
Interested persons and organisations may apply by sending the following to:
The Director, International Institute on Ageing, 117 St. Paul Street, Valletta VLT 1216, MALTA
1. An application form which is available through the Institute's web-site or directly from INIA.
2. Proof of proficiency in English.
3. A letter of recommendation from the Director of your organization.
4. A personal letter (giving reasons for attending the course).
5. Copies of relevant certificates.


Closing date for applications is 22nd January, 2011.

Course Fee: US$2, 680 (includes tuition, board-accommodation and meals but excludes travel).

INIA might have available a limited number of partial scholarships. However, since this is not guaranteed, it is in the interest of prospective candidates to secure alternative funding.


Contact:
International Institute on Ageing, United Nations - Malta, 117, St. Paul Street,
Valletta VLT 1216, MALTA.
Telephone: (+356) 21-243044/5/6
Telefax : (+356) 21-230248
E-mail: programmes@inia.org.mt
Web site: http://www.inia.org.mt