Cambridge, 5 June 2009 -- HREA and the Asia Pacific Forum (APF) signed a partnership agreement to meet the specific training needs of APF members. HREA will provide online courses that will complement the APF’s existing training programmes and provide a 'blended' learning experience for participants.

"Providing courses online allows participants to explore core human rights concepts in detail over an extended period of time before they take part in our face-to-face training workshops," said Kieren Fitzpatrick, Director of the APF Secretariat.

HREA will develop two 10-week pilot courses for AFP members: a foundation course for staff of national human rights institutions, to be delivered from September 2009; and a course on the International human rights system, to be delivered from February 2010.

Up to 30 people will be able to participate in each course, with invitations for the first pilot course to be extended to APF member institutions in July.

"The APF is delighted to have established this partnership with HREA," said Mr Fitzpatrick. "They have long-standing experience in developing and delivering successful online training programs that build knowledge and skills of people working to promote and protect human rights."

The Asia Pacific Forum of National Human Rights Institutions (APF) is the leading regional human rights organisation in the Asia Pacific. Established in 1996, it is a member-based organisation that supports the establishment and strengthening of national human rights institutions in the region.