Effective communication in leadership and professional development course
Background: Evidence shows that gender equality and women’s rights are critical drivers of health, wellbeing, and socioeconomic development. The complexity of global health problems demands leadership that represents the pluralism in society. In 2017, the World Health Assembly approved The Global vector control response (GVCR) 2017–2030 strategy that indicates the urgent need to strengthen vector control activities in preventing disease outbreaks (WHO, 2017). The strategy recommended re-alignment of vector control programmes with increased technical capacity support, improved infrastructure, strengthened monitoring and surveillance systems, and greater community mobilization. It is envisaged that implementation of a comprehensive approach to vector control will enable achievement of disease-specific national and global goals and contribute to achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals and Universal Health Coverage.
The Pan-African Mosquito Control Association (PAMCA) is an African professional body that brings together actors in the field of vectors and vector-borne disease control. PAMCA exists to provide a platform for capacity building, knowledge sharing and collaboration for concerted vector control initiatives in the African continent. As part of capacity building, PAMCA is committed in building the capacity of women leaders in the vector-borne diseases control in Africa, more so, mobilizing expertise and a pool of technically skilled women in the field of VBDs.
Rationale: During the 6th PAMCA conference in Cameroon, PAMCA undertook a special and the first of its kind workshop and a symposium that focused on women in vector control (WIVC). This was a huge step towards mitigating the lack of Africa wide initiatives that supports women in vector control. Through the workshop PAMCA identified the need for professional development of WIVC through enhancing leadership abilities and confidence building. PAMCA, therefore, proposes to host a 3-day bootcamp that focusses on WIVC professional development in Kigali, Rwanda. The workshop will be held 3 days prior to the 8th PAMCA conference on 23rd and 25th September and will be anchored on the following learning objective.
Objective: To improve the leadership and communication skills of professional women in vector control champions in Africa.
Course Content
· Leadership skills and competencies
· Strategic thinking in leadership
· Leadership for Performance Improvement
· Confidence building techniques and coaching
· Self-regulation and management tools/practices
· Communication skills and CV writing
· Social media engagement
Expected outcomes:
- 25 WIVC coached on leadership and confidence
- More women in managerial positions in Vector control activities
Eligibility
· Women working on the control of Vector-Borne diseases in Africa
· Women interested in the PAMCA WIVC mentorship programme
Benefits of attending:
- Upon completion of this programme, participants will have gained valuable skills and confident in effective communication, transformative leadership & the ability to offer strategic guidance in a dynamic environment not only on VBD.
Application process
The course application form is available here Application Form. Applicants are required to provide:
- Applicant information (application form).
- PAMCA membership: please indicate your membership ID.
- All applications must be received by midnight of July 30, 2022, EAT.
- All applications received after the deadline will not be considered.
Membership is open to all those with an interest in the field and the Association, and can join via https://www.pamca.org
Review process & Assessment Criteria
Each applicant is expected to apply for the course within the timeline and submit the all the requirements. An applicant will incomplete application automatically disqualified. The applications will be assessed on the following criteria:
· Applicant fulfils all the eligibility criteria
· Duly filled and completed application form
Notification:
- Successful applicants will be notified of their applications by August 10, 2022, following successful review of the applications by a joint panel of PAMCA and WIVC Committee. Due to the volumes of applications received only shortlisted applicants will be contacted. For further information please contact: wivc@pamca.org
Important dates
July 15, 2022: Applications Open
July 30, 2022: Applications Close
August 10, 2022: Notification to Successful Applicants