Effective leadership is paramount to the success and sustainability of programs aimed at improving maternal and child health outcomes. Leaders in this field face a complex interplay of clinical, social, economic, and political factors that demand a unique skill set beyond standard management. This training course is designed to empower current and aspiring leaders with the strategic vision, operational expertise, and advocacy skills necessary to drive meaningful change and create a lasting impact in their communities.

This program provides a comprehensive framework for navigating the challenges and opportunities inherent in MCH initiatives. You will learn to build high-performing teams, secure essential resources, and implement data-driven strategies that optimize program effectiveness. By focusing on practical, real-world scenarios, the course prepares you to not only manage but also innovate and advocate for policies that create a healthier future for mothers and children.

Duration

5 days

Target Audience

• Program managers and coordinators in MCH
• Directors of public health departments
• Clinical directors and lead nurses in maternity wards
• NGO and non-profit leaders
• Health policy and advocacy specialists
• Government officials in health ministries
• Monitoring and evaluation officers
• Community health program supervisors
• Researchers in maternal and child health
• Public health consultants

Objectives

• Master the core principles of strategic leadership in MCH.
• Develop skills in program design, implementation, and management.
• Understand effective strategies for resource mobilization and grant writing.
• Build and lead high-performing, multi-disciplinary MCH teams.
• Utilize data and evidence to inform program decisions and demonstrate impact.
• Implement effective advocacy strategies to influence health policy.
• Foster sustainable partnerships and collaborations with stakeholders.
• Navigate ethical challenges and promote equitable healthcare access.
• Drive innovation and adapt programs to changing community needs.

Course Modules

Module 1: Foundations of MCH Leadership

• The unique role and responsibilities of an MCH leader.
• Understanding the global and local context of maternal and child health.
• Leadership theories and their application in public health.
• Ethical considerations and decision-making in MCH programs.
• Building a vision and mission for your MCH program.

Module 2: Strategic Program Planning and Management

• Conducting needs assessments and situational analyses.
• Designing MCH programs with clear goals and objectives.
• Developing logical frameworks and theories of change.
• Operational planning, implementation, and activity scheduling.
• Managing program risks and unforeseen challenges.

Module 3: Financial Management and Resource Mobilization

• Creating and managing program budgets.
• Identifying funding sources and writing compelling grant proposals.
• Building relationships with donors and partners.
• Financial oversight, accountability, and reporting.
• Leveraging community resources and in-kind contributions.

Module 4: Team Leadership and Human Resources

• Recruiting, training, and retaining a skilled MCH workforce.
• Fostering a culture of collaboration and psychological safety.
• Providing effective supervision, mentorship, and performance feedback.
• Conflict resolution and team dynamics management.
• Empowering community health workers and volunteers.

Module 5: Advocacy and Policy Influence

• Understanding the policy-making process in health.
• Developing a compelling advocacy message and strategy.
• Building coalitions and engaging stakeholders for policy change.
• Communicating program successes and evidence to policymakers.
• The role of a leader as a public health advocate.

Module 6: Monitoring, Evaluation, and Learning

• The importance of robust M&E systems in MCH.
• Developing key performance indicators (KPIs) and data collection tools.
• Using data to track progress, identify gaps, and make adjustments.
• Conducting program evaluations to measure impact.
• Fostering a learning culture for continuous program improvement.

Module 7: Innovation and Sustainability

• Exploring new technologies and digital health solutions in MCH.
• Adapting programs to address emerging health challenges.
• Creating sustainable funding models beyond grant cycles.
• Developing succession plans and building future leaders.
• Scaling up successful programs for broader impact.

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.