The NOVA National School of Public Health (NOVA NSPH) has started the Advanced Healthcare and Leadership Program, a training of excellence that aims to train leaders for the challenges of the health sector. The inaugural session, which took place on 22 March, was attended by the dean of ENSP NOVA, Sónia Dias, the deputy dean, Rui Santana, Adalberto Campos Fernandes, professor at ENSP NOVA and coordinator of the course, who highlighted the relevance of this initiative and its link to the school’s mission. This was followed by a first lecture by Josep Figueras, director emeritus of the European Observatory on Health Systems and Policies
Opening the session, Sónia Dias reinforced NOVA NSPH ‘s commitment to innovation in health training and research, emphasising the importance of developing strategic skills and transformative leadership to respond to the growing complexities of health systems. The director also took the opportunity to thank the course coordinators, Adalberto Campos Fernandes and Ricardo Mestre, for the programme of excellence they have developed.
Sónia Dias recalled that this programme comes at a time of great challenges for society, particularly in the area of health, ranging from public health emergencies to ageing, sustainability and the integration of care.
‘The Advanced Healthcare and Leadership Program is designed to train professionals who want to lead the transformation of healthcare. The aim is to provide a space for reflection, learning and innovation, where they can acquire essential tools for strategic management, decision-making and leadership in a rapidly evolving sector,’ she said. ‘No change happens without strong, strategic leadership. And today, more than ever, we need leaders capable of anticipating trends, making evidence-based decisions and mobilising teams for change,’ added Sónia Dias.
Adalberto Campos Fernandes also stressed that this programme represents a milestone in executive training in Portugal, in line with the best international practices. According to the coordinator, the course promotes a fusion between theory and practice, providing participants with an immersive experience that combines technical knowledge, strategic vision and a strong networking and experience-sharing component.
‘This course is not just about acquiring knowledge but about transforming the way we think about management and leadership in healthcare. Here, there are not just theoreticians or practitioners – there is a joint commitment to building innovative solutions for the future of the sector,’ said Adalberto Campos Fernandes at the opening session.
The Advanced Healthcare and Leadership Program has a dynamic format, structured over the course of several months, and integrates an interdisciplinary approach that combines interactive classes with renowned experts, collaborative work sessions and case studies and international perspectives on leadership and innovation in healthcare. The presence of reference leaders and national and international experts guarantees an enriching dialogue between participants and a comprehensive view of the challenges and opportunities in the field of health.
