In Timor-Leste, HAMNASA and the National Institute of Public Health-Timor-Leste developed the Learning Lab approach, which continue to build on core training competencies over time through on-site case-studies, practice simulations, and role-playing. Midwives who have participated in Learning Labs report that prior to this training they often referred difficult cases, such as newborn resuscitation, to a higher level facility, but after Learning Lab training they have confidence to treat these cases on their own and avoid high risk travel to a referral facility.

HAMNASA, midwife trainers have conducted learning labs for municipality midwives in antenatal and postpartum care, safe and clean delivery, and essential newborn care. To address the important issue of domestic violence in Timor-Leste, HAMNASA integrated a domestic violence module into all Learning Lab trainings. The domestic violence module covers identification of signs of violence and counseling and referral skills for midwives and doctors.