International People’s Health University 2011 –2018. The IPHU Courses in El Salvador, a transformative experience

Abstract

The Ministry of Health of El Salvador (Minsal) and the People’s Health Movement (PHM) implemented seven courses for health personnel and community leaders committed, or with the desire to be, in the exercise of the human right to health, with support from the International People’s Health University
(IPHU) during the period 2011 – 2018 (government of the Farabundo Marti Liberation Front – FMLN). Eight generations were formed including more than 300 people, comprising Minsal staff, other institutions, leaders of the National Health Forum and Latin American community leaders. The article shares objectives, methodology, process of organization and implementation, and results of this experience. The impact of the process of formation of health teams and activists of social movements is analyzed, achieving an agreement-alliance between State and Civil Society. The impact on the strengthening of the Salvadoran health system and some records of the experiences and reflections (sentipensares) of some participants are also shared. The article allows us to understand the opportunities generated by this type of alliance as well as the difficulties encountered and how they were overcome.