Effective public health interventions depend on more than just medical knowledge; they require the ability to inspire and sustain positive health behaviors within communities. This training course delves into the art and science of health promotion, providing professionals with the essential tools to design, implement, and evaluate communication strategies that drive real and lasting change. By mastering the principles of behavior change, participants will be able to tackle complex health challenges and empower individuals and populations to make healthier choices for themselves.

This program is designed to equip you with a comprehensive toolkit for crafting compelling health messages and engaging with diverse audiences. You will explore key theoretical frameworks, learn how to segment communities, and apply strategic communication techniques to a variety of settings. The course moves beyond theory to practical application, ensuring you can translate knowledge into action and create impactful programs that improve health outcomes and promote well-being on a broad scale.

Duration

5 days

Target Audience

• Public health professionals
• Community outreach coordinators
• Health educators
• Program managers and developers
• Social marketing specialists
• Clinical health professionals
• Non-profit organization staff
• Government health department employees
• Communication and media professionals
• Social workers and counselors

Objectives

• Understand foundational theories of health behavior and change.
• Design audience-centric health promotion campaigns.
• Master the principles of effective risk and health communication.
• Utilize various communication channels to reach target populations.
• Develop culturally sensitive and appropriate health messages.
• Plan and manage health promotion programs from start to finish.
• Conduct a basic evaluation of a behavior change intervention.
• Advocate for health policy and environmental changes.
• Foster community engagement and participation in health initiatives.

Course Modules

Module 1: Foundations of Health Behavior and Communication

• A deep dive into key health behavior theories and models.
• The role of social, cultural, and environmental factors in health.
• Principles of effective health communication.
• Understanding the communication process from sender to receiver.
• The difference between health promotion and health education.

Module 2: Audience Analysis and Message Design

• Techniques for segmenting and profiling target audiences.
• Conducting a community needs and asset assessment.
• Crafting clear, concise, and compelling health messages.
• The use of storytelling and visuals in health communication.
• Pre-testing messages to ensure effectiveness and avoid unintended consequences.

Module 3: Communication Channels and Media Strategies

• Selecting the right mix of traditional and digital media.
• Strategies for social media and online health campaigns.
• Using mass media for broad public health reach.
• The role of interpersonal communication and peer education.
• Developing a comprehensive communication plan.

Module 4: Planning and Implementing Health Promotion Programs

• The steps of program planning, from problem identification to action.
• Setting clear goals, objectives, and indicators.
• Developing a project timeline and budget.
• Creating a logic model for your health promotion program.
• Mobilizing community partners and building coalitions.

Module 5: Advocacy and Policy Communication

• The relationship between health promotion and policy change.
• Communicating with policymakers and elected officials.
• Building a case for policy reform using data and testimonials.
• Strategies for media advocacy and public relations.
• The ethical responsibilities of a health advocate.

Module 6: Evaluation of Health Promotion Interventions

• Defining the purpose and types of program evaluation.
• Creating a simple evaluation plan.
• Collecting data on program reach, fidelity, and outcomes.
• Analyzing data to measure program success.
• Using evaluation findings to improve and sustain your work.

Module 7: Special Topics in Behavior Change

• Addressing health literacy in communication.
• Communication strategies for crisis and emergency situations.
• Promoting mental health and well-being.
• The integration of technology in modern health promotion.
• Case studies of successful behavior change campaigns from around the world.

Training Approach

This course will be delivered by our skilled trainers who have vast knowledge and experience as expert professionals in the fields. The course is taught in English and through a mix of theory, practical activities, group discussion and case studies. Course manuals and additional training materials will be provided to the participants upon completion of the training.

Tailor-Made Course

This course can also be tailor-made to meet organization requirement. For further inquiries, please contact us on: Email: info@skillsforafrica.org, training@skillsforafrica.org Tel: +254 702 249 449

Training Venue

The training will be held at our Skills for Africa Training Institute Training Centre. We also offer training for a group at requested location all over the world. The course fee covers the course tuition, training materials, two break refreshments, and buffet lunch.

Visa application, travel expenses, airport transfers, dinners, accommodation, insurance, and other personal expenses are catered by the participant

Certification

Participants will be issued with Skills for Africa Training Institute certificate upon completion of this course.

Airport Pickup and Accommodation

Airport pickup and accommodation is arranged upon request. For booking contact our Training Coordinator through Email: info@skillsforafrica.org, training@skillsforafrica.org Tel: +254 702 249 449

Terms of Payment: Unless otherwise agreed between the two parties’ payment of the course fee should be done 7 working days before commencement of the training.