BEGIN:VCALENDAR
VERSION:2.0
PRODID:-//catholicsisterselderlycarenetworkghana.com - ECPv6.16.3//NONSGML v1.0//EN
CALSCALE:GREGORIAN
METHOD:PUBLISH
X-WR-CALNAME:catholicsisterselderlycarenetworkghana.com
X-ORIGINAL-URL:https://catholicsisterselderlycarenetworkghana.com
X-WR-CALDESC:Events for catholicsisterselderlycarenetworkghana.com
REFRESH-INTERVAL;VALUE=DURATION:PT1H
X-Robots-Tag:noindex
X-PUBLISHED-TTL:PT1H
BEGIN:VTIMEZONE
TZID:UTC
BEGIN:STANDARD
TZOFFSETFROM:+0000
TZOFFSETTO:+0000
TZNAME:UTC
DTSTART:20250101T000000
END:STANDARD
END:VTIMEZONE
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20260604T080000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20260604T170000
DTSTAMP:20260726T093715
CREATED:20260604T125507Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260604T125507Z
UID:864-1780560000-1780592400@catholicsisterselderlycarenetworkghana.com
SUMMARY:EXCERPTS FROM THE CSECNG WEBINAR IN MAY
DESCRIPTION:Topic: Overcoming the Impact of Hypertension and Diabetes through Prevention and Early Comprehensive Intervention\nCatholic Sisters Elderly Care Network Ghana’s Zoom Meeting –  Tap here to download the PDF of the Summary \nPREVENTION AND CONTROL_HYPERTENSION AND DIABETES – Tap here to download the Powerpoint Presentation used by the Speaker \nDate: 30th May\, 2026.\nSpeaker: Dr. (Mrs) Phyllis Tawiah\, MD\, MPH\, FGCP\, FACP\, Specialist\, Internal Medicine & Geriatrics\nQuick recap\nThe Catholic Sisters Elderly Care Network\, Ghana hosted a webinar on “Overcoming the Impact of Hypertension and Diabetes through Prevention and Early Comprehensive Intervention.” Dr. Mrs. Phyllis Tawiah\, a geriatrician and director of the Center for Aging and Elderly Care at Metro Health Hospital\, presented comprehensive information on hypertension mechanisms\, risk factors\, management strategies\, and diabetes prevention and control. The presentation covered the DASH diet\, exercise recommendations\, weight management\, medication adherence\, and the importance of regular blood pressure and blood sugar monitoring. Sisters asked questions about specific treatments\, herbal remedies\, exercise watches\, and dietary recommendations\, with Dr. Phyllis Tawiah providing detailed responses about appropriate interventions and lifestyle modifications. The session concluded with plans to share the presentation slides and YouTube link with participants for future reference. \nNext steps\nDr. Mrs. Phyllis Tawiah\n\nShare a PDF of the presentation slides and recommend 2-3 reliable fitness watches/monitors for sisters to consider.\n\nCollaboration\n\nPlant and grow vegetables\, fruits\, and healthy food options (e.g.\, spinach\, dandelion\, avocado\, apple\, orange) in convent gardens or containers to improve access to healthy produce.\nImplement and follow the DASH diet and diabetes-friendly dietary guidelines in community meal planning\, including portion control\, increased vegetables\, and reduced salt and processed foods.\nRegularly monitor blood pressure and blood sugar (A1C) at recommended intervals; ensure each convent has at least one working blood pressure machine.\nEngage in at least 150 minutes of moderate intensity exercise weekly\, combined with two days of resistance/strengthening exercise\, as advised by Dr. Mrs. Phillips.\nPractice stress management techniques\, prioritize 7-9 hours of sleep\, and reduce stressors (e.g.\, limit phone/WhatsApp use\, practice mindfulness/meditation).\nLimit alcohol\, quit smoking\, and reduce intake of over-the-counter medications that may raise blood pressure (e.g.\, ibuprofen\, decongestants\, caffeine\, steroids).\nTake prescribed hypertension and diabetes medications as directed; do not stop or change medications without consulting a doctor.\nShare the presentation slides and YouTube link with those unable to attend\, and encourage ongoing education on hypertension and diabetes management.\nFor those with symptoms of neuropathy or unexplained symptoms (e.g.\, tingling\, dizziness)\, consult a doctor for appropriate evaluation and treatment\, including possible nerve repair medications and vitamin support.\nIf managing diabetes\, monitor A1C every 3 months if uncontrolled\, and work with doctors to set and review personalized management plans.\nEncourage and support each other in healthy lifestyle changes\, especially in community settings\, and consider making healthy eating and exercise a regular group activity.\nOrganize future webinars on related health topics and continue to share educational resources with members.\n\nSummary\nHypertension and Diabetes Prevention Webinar\nSr. Immaculate welcomed participants to a webinar on overcoming hypertension and diabetes through prevention and early intervention\, organized by the Catholic Sisters Elderly Care Network\, Ghana. Dr. Phyllis\, a geriatrician and presenter\, explained the mechanisms\, risks\, and impacts of hypertension and diabetes\, emphasizing the importance of early screening and lifestyle modifications to prevent complications. She outlined steps for managing blood pressure\, including regular monitoring\, lifestyle changes\, and medication adherence\, and highlighted the significant health risks associated with uncontrolled hypertension and diabetes. \nHypertension Management Lifestyle Strategies\nDr. Phyllis discussed the importance of managing hypertension through lifestyle modifications and medication compliance. She outlined five core lifestyle pillars: diet (following the DASH diet)\, exercise (30 minutes daily\, 5 days a week with additional strengthening exercises)\, weight control\, substance limitation\, and stress management. Dr. Phillis emphasized the DASH diet’s focus on whole grains\, fruits\, vegetables\, and lean proteins\, while limiting salt and alcohol consumption. She also stressed the importance of managing stress through mindfulness and proper sleep habits\, noting that much of what people perceive as stress is a state of mind that can be controlled. \nDiabetes Types and Risk Factors\nDr. Phyllis explained the differences between type 1 and type 2 diabetes\, noting that type 1 typically occurs in children and requires insulin treatment\, while type 2 can often be managed with medication and lifestyle changes initially. She outlined normal blood sugar ranges using fasting glucose and A1C measurements\, emphasizing that levels above specific thresholds indicate prediabetes or diabetes. Dr. Phyllis highlighted key risk factors for type 2 diabetes in Ghana\, including low physical activity\, obesity\, and certain dietary patterns\, explaining how insulin resistance develops due to excess fat in organs and lack of physical activity. \nDiabetes Management and Complications\nDr. Phyllis discussed the serious complications of diabetes\, emphasizing the importance of controlling blood sugar levels through a 1% A1C reduction which can significantly reduce mortality and complications. She outlined five main components of diabetes management: nutritional management\, exercise\, monitoring\, and education. Dr. Phyllis provided specific dietary recommendations including 12 foods that lower diabetes risk such as fatty fish\, leafy greens\, nuts\, and garlic\, while explaining proper portion sizes for various foods including meat\, rice\, and vegetables. \nDiabetes and Hypertension Management Presentation\nDr. Phyllis Tawiah delivered an educational presentation on diabetes and hypertension management\, covering topics such as fasting benefits\, exercise recommendations\, medication adherence\, and dietary adjustments. She emphasized the importance of regular monitoring\, particularly using A1C tests every three months\, and recommended specific lifestyle changes including weight management\, proper nutrition\, and regular exercise. During the Q&A session\, participants asked about various health concerns including chia seeds for fat reduction\, blood pressure monitoring\, neuropathy treatment\, and plantain consumption for prediabetes. Dr. Phyllis Tawiah provided detailed responses to these questions\, including recommendations for wearable health devices and advice on
URL:https://catholicsisterselderlycarenetworkghana.com/event/excerpts-from-the-csecng-webinar-in-may/
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20260623T080000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20260623T170000
DTSTAMP:20260726T093715
CREATED:20260623T102653Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260623T102927Z
UID:871-1782201600-1782234000@catholicsisterselderlycarenetworkghana.com
SUMMARY:Catholic Sisters Elderly Care Network Ghana is inviting you to a scheduled Zoom meeting.
DESCRIPTION:Catholic Sisters Elderly Care Network Ghana is inviting you to a scheduled Zoom meeting. \nTopic: INTERGENERATIONAL RELATIONSHIPS IN RELIGIOUS COMMUNITIES\nDate: 27th June\, 2026\nTime: 4:00 PM – 6:00PM GMT\nJoin Zoom Meeting\nhttps://us06web.zoom.us/j/81760027902?pwd=KZyMVMSLbHtPbvWrfkkxRw1UGag8Yl.1 \nMeeting chat link\nhttps://us06web.zoom.us/launch/jc/81760027902 \nView meeting insights with Zoom AI Companion\nhttps://us06web.zoom.us/launch/edl?muid=b056affd-335e-40ae-8249-fa9ac4f84d03 \nMeeting ID: 817 6002 7902\nPasscode: 299963 \n— \nOne tap mobile\n+12532050468\,\,81760027902#\,\,\,\,*299963# US\n+12532158782\,\,81760027902#\,\,\,\,*299963# US (Tacoma) \n— \nJoin by SIP\n* 81760027902@zoomcrc.com \nJoin instructions\nhttps://us06web.zoom.us/meetings/81760027902/invitations?signature=u4wHdbOvquh29CxpxZEw0Fvcp4IQ4m2cYDo4iU6QFYA
URL:https://catholicsisterselderlycarenetworkghana.com/event/871/
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20260713
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20260714
DTSTAMP:20260726T093715
CREATED:20260713T131201Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260713T131201Z
UID:883-1783900800-1783987199@catholicsisterselderlycarenetworkghana.com
SUMMARY:MONITORING\, EVALUATION AND LEARNING(MEL) WORKSHOP FOR THREE RELIGIOUS NETWORKS ENDS IN SUNYANI
DESCRIPTION:MONITORING\, EVALUATION AND LEARNING(MEL) WORKSHOP FOR THREE RELIGIOUS NETWORKS ENDS IN SUNYANI. \nCSECNG\, JULY 13\, 2026. \nThree networks of Religious Women established under the auspices of the Conference of Major Superiors of Religious\, Ghana (CMSR-GH)\, with support from the Conrad N. Hilton Foundation\, have successfully completed an intensive week-long Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E) workshop in Sunyani\, Bono Region. \nThe five-day residential training\, held from 6 July 2026 at the Eusbett Hotel\, sought to strengthen institutional effectiveness\, promote accountability in data management\, and enhance the sustainability of projects undertaken by the participating congregations. \n \nEnhancing Colaboration through Learning \nThe programme convened project coordinators\, administrators\, and other key stakeholders from ConPAHT–Talitha Kum Ghana (Consecrated Persons Against Human Trafficking)\, the Catholic Sisters Elderly Care Network–Ghana (CSECNG)\, and the Catholic Sister Communicators Network–Ghana (CASCON-GH). \nThe initiative was intended to provide participants with contemporary\, evidence-based approaches for monitoring\, evaluating\, and reporting on social\, educational\, and pastoral initiatives across dioceses and religious institutions nationwide. \nIn introducing the facilitator\, Sr. Victoria Swanzy-Essien\, SSND\, described Mr. Tom Olila as a highly experienced project management expert and mentor who has deep insight and experience in all aspects of project management and other related fields. \n \nM&E\, a key tool in capacity building \n  \nDuring the opening session\, Mr. Olila emphasized that Monitoring and Evaluation should be regarded not as a mere administrative obligation\, but as an essential instrument of our religious work. He encouraged the sisters and network leaders to assess their work with accuracy and openness\, ensuring that their ministries truly improve lives and uphold human dignity. \nMr. Olila also challenged participants to foster innovation and creativity in their apostolates\, noting that donors often seek projects distinguished by originality and clear added value. \n  \nThe workshop devoted significant attention to Monitoring\, Evaluation\, and Learning (MEL) frameworks within four principal operational domains: Financial Management\, Strategy\, Programme Management\, and Organisational Development. \nCapacity-building sessions covered the development of sound M&E frameworks and logical models suited to faith-based and community-focused initiatives; effective qualitative and quantitative data collection techniques; and the use of data to inform decision-making\, support institutional growth\, and ensure transparent reporting to development partners. \n \nSolution oriented discussions \nA practical component featured intensive group presentations by the various networks\, all structured around the Planning\, Monitoring\, and Evaluation (PME) framework. These exercises enabled participants to showcase real-life models\, review one another’s data strategies\, and align future pastoral and social programmes with internationally accepted reporting standards. \nBeyond the technical sessions\, the workshop also fostered the participants’ spiritual well-being. Holy Mass was celebrated throughout the programme by Rev. Fr. John Opong Baah\, Spiritual Director of St. James Minor Seminary Senior High School\, Sunyani. \n \nSpiritually enriching session \nLeadership and Participants of the MEL Workshop \n​The successful closing of the workshop on Friday\, July 10\, 2026\, was marked by the active participation of leadership figures across the networks\, including: \nFacilitator: Mr. Tom Olila\, Strategic Connections \n​CASCON-GH: Sr. Emmanuella Dakurah\, HHCJ (Director); Sr. Agnes Mercy Nyatsoe\, SMMC (Assistant Director); Sr. Rebecca Asante\, SVI (Finance Manager); Sr. Gifty Anastasia Blewu\, SMMC (Organiser/PRO). \n​Talitha Kum\, Ghana: Sr. Fidelia Unigwe\, DC (National Coordinator); Ms. Eugenia Akoto–Mensah (Programme Manager). \n\n​CSECNG: Sr. Victoria Suanzy-Essien\, SSND (Project Manager); Sr. Immaculate Lugugia\, DC (Wellness Coordinator); Sr. Mary Asumta Zaagbeb\, SMI (Wellness Coordinator); Mr. Emmanuel Abedu (Administrative Assistant). \n \nPromoting Collaboration among networks \nIn her vote of thanks\, Sr. Agnes Mercy Nyatsoe\, SMMC\, affirmed that the insights and skills gained during the five-day gathering had greatly strengthened the administrative and reporting capabilities of the participating networks and would further promote transparency and accountability in both their local and international reporting processes. \nBy: Mr. Abedu Emmanuel (Administrative Assistant\, Catholic Sisters Elderly Care Network Ghana\, CSECNG)
URL:https://catholicsisterselderlycarenetworkghana.com/event/monitoring-evaluation-and-learningmel-workshop-for-three-religious-networks-ends-in-sunyani/
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20260715
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20260716
DTSTAMP:20260726T093715
CREATED:20260715T130542Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260715T130734Z
UID:901-1784073600-1784159999@catholicsisterselderlycarenetworkghana.com
SUMMARY:Catholic Sisters Elderly Care Network Strengthens MEL Capacity Through Dedicated Coaching Session
DESCRIPTION:Catholic Sisters Elderly Care Network Strengthens MEL Capacity Through Dedicated Coaching Session – 1\nSunyani\, Ghana | July 9\, 2026 \nThe Catholic Sisters Elderly Care Network Ghana (CSECNG) has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening quality elderly care and organizational excellence following a dedicated one-on-one coaching session held as part of the recently concluded five-day Monitoring\, Evaluation and Learning (MEL) Convergence Workshop. \nThe personalized session\, facilitated by Mr. Olila\, formed part of the post-workshop engagement designed to help participating networks translate the knowledge gained during the convergence into practical actions tailored to their respective organizations. For CSECNG\, the discussion focused on enhancing elderly care services\, strengthening institutional systems\, and positioning the Network for greater impact and sustainability. \n \nInteractive Discussions on Strengthening Monitoring\, Evaluation\, Learning\, and Institutional Capacity \n  \nPromoting Holistic Care for Elderly and Infirmed Sisters\nA key area of discussion centered on the holistic well-being of elderly and infirmed Catholic Sisters. The facilitator emphasized that quality elderly care extends beyond meeting physical and medical needs. He encouraged the Network to prioritize regular wellness visits\, foster meaningful companionship\, and spend quality time with elderly Sisters\, noting that these simple acts of presence\, solidarity\, and attentive listening significantly improve their emotional\, psychological\, and spiritual well-being. \nThe session also highlighted the importance of continuously monitoring the progress and changing needs of beneficiaries to ensure that interventions remain relevant\, responsive\, and impactful. \n  \n \nDiscussions emphasized holistic care\, caregiver well-being\, and continuous organizational learning \nInvesting in Caregivers\nRecognizing caregivers as the backbone of quality elderly care\, the facilitator stressed the need for continuous capacity building and professional development. He encouraged the Network to organize regular training programmes that equip caregivers with the knowledge\, practical skills\, and resilience required to care for elderly and infirmed Sisters with compassion\, patience\, and professionalism. \nHe further noted that caregivers themselves require psychological and emotional support\, acknowledging the physical and emotional demands associated with caregiving. Supporting caregivers\, he explained\, ultimately enhances the quality of care provided to beneficiaries. \n \nCSECNG staff collaborating to develop practical strategies for quality elderly care. \nThe coaching session reaffirmed CSECNG’s commitment to providing holistic\, compassionate\, and evidence-based care for elderly and infirmed Catholic Sisters. By strengthening caregiver capacity and embracing continuous learning\, the Network is laying a solid foundation for sustainable and impactful elderly care. \n 
URL:https://catholicsisterselderlycarenetworkghana.com/event/catholic-sisters-elderly-care-network-strengthens-mel-capacity-through-dedicated-coaching-session/
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20260717
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20260718
DTSTAMP:20260726T093715
CREATED:20260717T130842Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260717T130842Z
UID:936-1784246400-1784332799@catholicsisterselderlycarenetworkghana.com
SUMMARY:Catholic Sisters Elderly Care Network Strengthens MEL Capacity Through Dedicated Coaching Session
DESCRIPTION:Catholic Sisters Elderly Care Network Strengthens MEL Capacity Through Dedicated Coaching Session – 2\nSunyani\, Ghana | July 9\, 2026 \nStrengthening Organizational Systems\nThe coaching session also provided an opportunity for CSECNG to review its strategic priorities and identify practical steps to strengthen its institutional capacity. \nAmong the key recommendations were the development of a comprehensive annual activity plan\, the conduct of quarterly monitoring and evaluation visits to designated communities\, and the implementation of scheduled workshops to build the capacity of caregivers and other stakeholders. \nThe facilitator further emphasized the importance of establishing strong organizational policies\, particularly in the areas of finance and human resources\, explaining that well-developed governance systems are essential for organizational accountability\, effective programme management\, and increased donor confidence. \nOther priority areas identified included the development of comprehensive caregiver guidelines\, conducting equipment needs assessments to improve service delivery\, and enhancing accessibility at the Network’s office through the construction of an access ramp. \nMembers of the Catholic Sisters Elderly Care Network Ghana reviewing strategic priorities and identifying practical actions to strengthen organizational systems\, governance\, and programme effectiveness. \n  \nBuilding Sustainable Partnerships\nAn important highlight of the session was the discussion on building and nurturing strategic relationships with donors and stakeholders. Mr. Olila encouraged the Network to move beyond the traditional approach of engaging organizations only when seeking financial support. \nHe emphasized that meaningful partnerships are built on trust\, mutual respect\, and consistent engagement\, long before proposals are submitted. According to the facilitator\, organizations should intentionally cultivate healthy relationships with individuals\, institutions\, and corporate bodies by maintaining regular communication\, sharing their impact stories\, and exploring opportunities for collaboration. \nHe further advised that relationships with donors should not be viewed solely as avenues for funding. Instead\, CSECNG was encouraged to pursue mutually beneficial partnerships where both parties contribute knowledge\, expertise\, resources\, and shared value toward achieving common goals. Such long-term partnerships\, he noted\, are more sustainable and create greater opportunities for innovation\, learning\, and organizational growth. \n  \nParticipants discussing annual planning\, quarterly monitoring visits\, and capacity-building initiatives to enhance service delivery for elderly and infirmed Catholic Sisters. \nA Renewed Commitment to Excellence\nReflecting on the session\, members of the Network expressed appreciation for the practical guidance and strategic insights received. The one-on-one coaching provided a valuable opportunity to align the Network’s activities with best practices in monitoring\, evaluation\, learning\, governance\, and partnership development. \nThe session concluded with a renewed commitment by CSECNG to strengthen its internal systems\, invest in caregiver development\, foster meaningful partnerships\, and continuously improve the quality of care provided to elderly and infirmed Catholic Sisters throughout Ghana. \nAs the Network continues to grow\, it remains steadfast in its mission of promoting the dignity\, health\, and well-being of elderly Religious Sisters through compassionate care\, organizational excellence\, and collaborative partnerships that create lasting impact. \nMutually beneficial partnerships that extend beyond financial support. \n  \nThe one-on-one coaching session marked an important milestone in CSECNG’s journey toward organizational growth and excellence in elderly care. The practical recommendations shared by the facilitator have provided a clear roadmap for strengthening governance\, enhancing caregiver capacity\, improving programme implementation\, and fostering meaningful partnerships that will sustain the Network’s mission. \nAs CSECNG continues to implement these strategic actions\, the Network remains committed to promoting the dignity\, health\, and holistic well-being of elderly and infirmed Catholic Sisters across Ghana. Through continuous learning\, collaboration\, and innovation\, CSECNG is building stronger systems today to create lasting impact for generations of Religious Sisters tomorrow.
URL:https://catholicsisterselderlycarenetworkghana.com/event/catholic-sisters-elderly-care-network-strengthens-mel-capacity-through-dedicated-coaching-session-2/
END:VEVENT
END:VCALENDAR