Lisbon says goodbye today to a group of 40 professionals from more than 20 countries and organizations who have just finished the WHO European Public Health Leadership Course – Enhancing public health leadership competencies, organised by the NOVA National School of Public Health (NOVA NSPH).
After a first week online, the group was in Lisbon to complete this intensive training which aims to prepare leaders of excellence for the challenges in the field of Public Health. This course ensured that Public Health leaders develop a broad vision, in-depth knowledge and are highly committed to the great challenges of global health, in an area that is constantly changing.
The programme addressed critical competencies such as analysing and responding to crises, formulating evidence-based policies and promoting ethical and inclusive decision-making. Health systems have faced growing challenges in recent years, challenges that are not only health-related but also linked to factors such as the climate transition or social inequalities. Only a joint, participatory response can prepare countries for the answers people need.
‘This course that NOVA NSPH has provided, together with the WHO, is an essential response because of its innovative nature and its focus on the skills needed by the professionals of the future. With this programme, participants had access to very practical training that will generate the right skills for an agile and quality response to future crises, which will also lead to better policies and more ethical and inclusive decisions. At the end of these two weeks, we are sure that the work will be continued and that everyone will leave better prepared to lead the way in building a healthier and more sustainable society,’ emphasises the dean of NOVA NSPH, Sónia Dias.
‘At a time of turbulence, public health leaders must act in partnership, involving all members of society – politicians, experts, patients and communities – to tackle critical challenges such as climate change, inequality and misinformation. This course empowers health professionals to lead, learn from global experts and create sustainable solutions for a healthier future,’ emphasises João Breda, Head, WHO Athens Office on Quality of Care and Patient Safety & Special Adviser for the Regional Director, Special Representative and Officer in Charge, WHO Greece.
The group included more than 10 Portuguese participants. The training involved interactive experiences and problem-based learning. The approach promoted the continuous development of competences and encouraged critical reflection, collaboration and the building of lasting professional networks.
From behavioural and cultural aspects to effective scientific and public health writing, as well as leadership attributes, the social determinants of health in the post-pandemic era, mental health and artificial intelligence and the use of data and the digital transition, several topics were covered. Of note from NOVA NSPH were the sessions led by Sónia Dias on Health Inequalities, Susana Viegas on Public Health Research and Joana Seringa on Public Health and Artificial Intelligence.