Program for Endoscopic Teachers (PET) South Africa 2026

The Program for Endoscopic Teachers (PET) is a dedicated train-the-trainers course designed for experienced endoscopists and leaders involved in endoscopy education.

This PET course, organized by World Endoscopy Organization in collaboration with South African Gastroenterology Society, will focus on improving teaching skills, training methodologies, and approaches to competency assessment in digestive endoscopy.

Please note: This course is not open for general applications. Participants are invited locally based on identified educational needs and program requirements.

Course Details

Date: September 23, 2026
Venue: Southern Sun The Cullinan Hotel
Location: Cape Town, South Africa

Course Directors:

• Douglas O. Faigel (USA)
• Jörg Reichenberger (South Africa)

Course Themes

The program will explore key topics in endoscopy education, including:

• Training techniques and teaching methodologies
• Effective use of models and simulators in endoscopy training
• Assessment of trainee competency

Program Highlights

The one-day PET course will combine interactive learning formats, including:

• Discussions on the role and responsibilities of endoscopy trainers, competency assessment, and improving training programs
• Case-based teaching sessions with expert feedback
• Hands-on simulator training focused on practical teaching techniques
• Small-group sessions covering feedback, cognitive skills, ergonomics, and local training challenges

For the complete schedule and detailed session descriptions, please see the full program.

Faculty

The course will bring together international experts and regional faculty members with extensive experience in endoscopy education.

International Faculty includes: Lars Aabakken (Norway), Purnima Bhat (Australia), Jonathan Cohen (USA), Evelien Dekker (Netherlands), Nonthalee Pausawasdi (Thailand), and Shivakumar Vignesh (USA).

South African Faculty includes: Mashiko Setshedi, Neo Seabi, Vasudevan (VG) Naidoo, and None Ramonate.

Acknowledgement of Partners

The PET course is generously supported by: Acino, Boston Scientific, Ferring Pharmaceuticals, Olympus, Tecmed.

We gratefully acknowledge the support of our partners in advancing excellence in endoscopy education and training.