The training activities of CEFPAS are targeted mainly at social and health professionals from Sicily and other Italian regions. One of the greatest problems of health professionals participating in training activities is the lack of support in the application phase. CEFPAS may therefore become a Reference Agency for local Health Units and regional Governments for the maximisation of investments made in training. Great importance is given to the operational and applied approach to training. Projects will also be implemented in favour of developing countries in the near future. Thanks to its location in the centre of the Mediterranean basin, plans are already under way for strengthening co-operation with North African and middle-east countries.   Direct training Activities CEFPAS develops high quality courses for social and health professionals. Training methods are "student centred" and focus on learning rather than teaching. Work in small groups is based on problem solving and on other interactive methodologies. Training programmes are based on users! Needs and activities are constantly evaluated.   Professional advice CEFPAS also offers professional advice for the Continuous Quality Improvement of health services and care. This is directed to public health care and services, private agencies, departments and operational units.   Current and planned activities Training projects derive from a careful analysis of training needs of professionals carried out at different levels of the health pyramid: from executive directors to health and administrative directors of health agencies and hospitals and of trade and professional unions etc. The last survey of this kind involved all professionals working in Sicilian family health centres and was done through a postal questionnaire. Obtained data have already been used for the development of several training activities. A specific training course for assistants of tetraplegic patients has being carried out by Cefpas on behalf of the Province of Palermo. Courses have been attended by more than 3,000 professionals. The Centre also provides on site accommodation.   Other activities In addition to training courses directly developed and organised, Cefpas has hosted numerous cultural events, congresses, meetings and workshops of high scientific value which have been attended by thousands of people. Thus, a great number of persons have become acquainted with the Centre and its activities over the time.   Activities carried out in other cities Cefpas has already carried out several courses in other Centres and institutions both in Sicily and in other Italian regions in answer to requests from Health Units and to meet specific local training needs.