Overview
Who is this for
This is a free course for managers and clinical leaders who play a central role in organising, managing and improving SUD treatment services within their organisations.
Why this course
Over the past few years, international organisations have produced a range of excellent evidence-based guidance and quality standards on drug (use disorder) treatment including, the ‘International Standards for the Treatment of Drug Use Disorders’ WHO/UNODC (2020) and the Key Quality Standards (UNODC et al 2011). But how do funders, leaders and managers of drug treatment services put this guidance and standards into practice?
This training is built around the new Management Handbook (Colombo Plan, 2025) and is designed to help leaders apply good management practice in line with international standards. Participants will learn how to assess their own services, identify areas for strengthening, and develop action plans aligned with the Key Quality Standards. The overall aim is to support national and international efforts to improve the quality and effectiveness of SUD treatment services.
What the course includes
Course 1:
12-Hour Training (5 Weeks)
- Start Date: Thursday, January 22
- Schedule: Every Thursday at 9:00 AM EST
- Dates: Jan 22, Jan 29, Feb 5, Feb 12, Feb 19
Format:
- First three sessions: 3 hours each
- Final two sessions (Feb 12 & Feb 19): 1.5 hours each
Course 2:
12-Hour Training (5 Weeks)
Includes Spanish Simultaneous Translation
- Start Date: Tuesday, February 24
- Schedule: Every Tuesday at 9:00 AM EST
- Dates: Feb 24, Mar 3, Mar 10, Mar 17, Mar 24
Format:
- First three sessions: 3 hours each
- Final two sessions (Mar 17 & Mar 24): 1.5 hours each
Capacity:
- Number of delegate places: up to 30 places for individuals or organisations.
Language:
- This training will be delivered in English. Applicants should have a high level of English proficiency, typically equivalent to IELTS 7.0 or TOEFL 94 to 101.
Trainers:
- The training is delivered by Annette Dale-Perera (author of the Management Handbook) and Rita Notarandrea (ICQ Global Lead).
Course evaluation feedback
In 2025 this course was delivered in-person and on-line to delegates from over 10 countries. The average evaluation score was 4.75/5. Delegate comments on the course included:
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“The training was very well organised and highly relevant to my work. The trainers were knowledgeable and energising. I recommend expanding this course to more participants in the future to strengthen service delivery in line with international standards”
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“All SUD managers and key leaders (government and private sector) should undergo this training”
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“Thanks to the facilitators and others in the room (conducive to learning). I also learned from other participants from other countries”.
Delegate Selection Criteria
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Current managers or Clinical Leads of SUD treatment services, or senior staff involved in quality assurance.
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If SUD treatment provider organisations would like to attend as a delegate – it may have 2 delegates to represent the organisations
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Commitment to attend all eight x 1.5 hour sessions of on-line training over 4 to 5 weeks.
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Commitment to review or audit services against good management practice and international standards during the course.
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We strongly recommend your attendance is supported by your senior management team as an output of the course is to create and implement an action plan to improve your SUD treatment service.
How to apply
Please check back later for information on how to apply.