University of Washington International Public Health Leadership Program 2024: Empowering African Health Leaders

Are you a mid-career public health professional in Africa looking to enhance your leadership skills and make a greater impact?

The University of Washington’s International Program in Public Health Leadership (IPPHL) may be the perfect opportunity to take your career to the next level.

This prestigious 8-month program aims to expand the policy and leadership capabilities of emerging leaders working in or closely with African Ministries of Health.

By focusing on policy analysis, evidence-based decision making, implementation science, and personal leadership development, IPPHL equips participants with the tools to drive lasting change in their health systems.

About the IPPHL Program

The International Program in Public Health Leadership is a flagship initiative of the Evans School at the University of Washington.

Since 2017, it has trained over 150 public health professionals from 35 African countries.

Key features of the program include:

• 8-month curriculum blending online and in-person learning
• Fully funded by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation
• Partnership with the Center for Creative Leadership
• Focus on policy analysis, evidence, implementation, and leadership
• One-on-one executive coaching and faculty advisors
• Case-based learning on real-world challenges
• Self-driven policy projects on current public health issues

The program positions leaders to navigate complex environments, initiate evidence-informed policies, improve healthcare accountability, and build partnerships across diverse stakeholders.

Program Structure and Timeline

The 2024 IPPHL program follows this schedule:

• April 16 – May 30 (8 weeks): Online Policy Intensive with 2 hours of live sessions per week
• June 12-29 (2.5 weeks): In-person sessions at University of Washington in Seattle
• July 16 – September 2 (10 weeks): Distance learning and enrichment
• September 3-6 (5 days): In-person Capstone Seminar (location TBD)

Throughout the program, participants work on a policy project focused on a real implementation or policy challenge they face in their work. Faculty advisors provide regular feedback and support.

Eligibility Criteria

The IPPHL program seeks mid-career public health professionals from Africa who meet the following criteria:

• Work in government or for a government initiative/partner at federal, regional, state or provincial level
• Manage public health programs with supervisory responsibilities
• Hold an advanced degree in public health, development, policy or medical field
• Citizen and resident of an African country
• Strong English language skills
• Ability to articulate policy/program implementation challenges

Benefits of Participating

IPPHL offers numerous benefits to participants, including:

• Expanded policy analysis and leadership skills
• Global network of public health leaders
• Personalized coaching and mentoring
• Practical experience through policy projects
• Exposure to cutting-edge public health research and practices
• Fully funded program, including travel and accommodation

By joining the growing IPPHL alumni network, fellows can leverage relationships and access continued support to drive organizational and systems-level change.

How to Apply

The application deadline for the 2024 IPPHL cohort is September 29, 2024 at 4pm PST.To apply, candidates must complete the following steps:

1. Fill out the online application form

• Answer 3 short essay questions (1500 characters each) on:Your leadership experience and skills
• A critical challenge you want to address through IPPHL
• How the program will further your career aspirations

1. Upload your CV/resume (PDF format)
2. Provide a Statement of Release from your supervisor
3. Submit a Letter of Recommendation from your employer/supervisor

The Letter of Recommendation should highlight:

• How IPPHL would support your professional development
• Your strengths and what you would add to the program
• Benefits of your participation for your team/organization
• Willingness to participate in program surveys/evaluations

Click here to apply for the IPPHL 2024 program

Tips for a Strong Application

To increase your chances of being selected, keep these tips in mind:

• Clearly articulate how IPPHL aligns with your career goals
• Provide concrete examples of your leadership experience
• Highlight the potential impact on your organization/country
• Demonstrate strong support from your employer
• Showcase your passion for driving change in public health
• Proofread carefully and follow all instructions

Program Requirements

If accepted, participants must commit to:

• Attending all virtual and in-person program components
• Completing preparatory work and assignments (5-7 hours/week)
• Developing a policy project with faculty advisor support
• Participating fully in the 2.5 week Seattle residency
• Engaging in post-program activities and alumni network

Why Choose IPPHL?

The International Program in Public Health Leadership stands out for several reasons:

• Prestigious institution: Learn from world-class faculty at the University of Washington
• African focus: Curriculum tailored to the unique challenges of African health systems
• Practical approach: Apply learnings directly to real-world policy projects
• Personalized support: Benefit from one-on-one coaching and mentoring
• Global network: Connect with health leaders from across Africa
• Full funding: Participate at no cost, thanks to the Gates Foundation

By combining academic rigor with practical application, IPPHL empowers participants to become more effective change agents in their home countries.

Success Stories

Past IPPHL fellows have gone on to make significant impacts in their fields.

Some examples of policy projects include:

• Improving data quality in Ethiopia’s health information system
• Introducing social health insurance in Nasarawa State, Nigeria
• Raising the profile of neglected tropical diseases in Tanzania
• Increasing HPV vaccination uptake in Uganda

These projects demonstrate the real-world applications of the skills and knowledge gained through IPPHL.

Conclusion

The University of Washington’s International Program in Public Health Leadership offers a unique opportunity for African health professionals to enhance their skills, expand their networks, and drive meaningful change in their communities.

If you’re passionate about improving public health outcomes and ready to take on greater leadership responsibilities, IPPHL could be the catalyst you need to advance your career and make a lasting impact.

Don’t miss this chance to join a global community of health leaders.

Apply now for the IPPHL 2024 cohort and take the next step in your public health leadership journey.

Remember, the application deadline is September 29, 2024. Start preparing your materials today to submit a strong application.

This could be the opportunity that transforms your career and helps you make an even greater difference in public health across Africa.

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