Apply for the Health and Risk Communication Summer Professional Program at the American University of Rome,Italy
Introduction: In our ever-changing world, effective communication in health and risk management is vital. Addressing this need, a comprehensive professional development program titled “Health and Risk Communication in an Interpandemic World” is scheduled to take place in Rome, Italy, from July 8-19, 2024. This unique initiative promises an enriching experience for professionals across various sectors and disciplines, equipping them with advanced strategies to navigate health communication challenges in the 21st century.
Who Should Attend: This program caters to professionals engaged in health, communication, international development, human rights, and community development. Whether affiliated with international organizations, government agencies, foundations, nonprofits, hospitals, or community-based organizations, participants stand to gain valuable insights applicable to diverse health and social contexts.
Overview: Organized in collaboration with Strategies for Equity and Communication Impact (SECI) and the Journal of Communication in Healthcare, this summer institute offers a platform for interdisciplinary dialogue and skill-building. Participants will delve into topics such as health and risk communication, social and behavior change, community engagement, and health equity. Lessons learned from the COVID-19 pandemic will inform discussions, emphasizing strategies to enhance health systems and address underlying inequities.
Course Description: Spanning ten days, the program focuses on health communication lessons gleaned from past epidemics and emerging disease outbreaks. Grounded in Social and Behavior Change (SBC) theory, participants will explore practical approaches to communication planning, evaluation, and implementation. Special attention will be paid to addressing misinformation, fostering trust in health information, and leveraging participatory strategies for community outreach.
Faculty and Guest Lectures: Esteemed faculty, including representatives from UNICEF, Doctors Without Borders, and the WHO Regional Office for Europe, will enrich the program with diverse perspectives. Site visits and lectures from local and international organizations will provide real-world insights into health communication practices.
Course Structure: The curriculum is structured around thematic units, covering introductory principles, advanced topics, and practical applications of health communication strategies. Through presentations, case studies, and hands-on exercises, participants will develop a nuanced understanding of communication dynamics in an interpandemic world.
Tuition and Registration: The course fee, inclusive of select meals and course materials, is €2,000 per participant. Optional housing in AUR shared apartments is available for an additional fee. Pre-registration, along with a non-refundable deposit, is required by May 1, 2024. International participants are advised to familiarize themselves with Italian travel requirements and visa regulations.
Conclusion: “Health and Risk Communication in an Interpandemic World” offers a timely opportunity for professionals to enhance their communication skills in navigating complex health challenges. By fostering a collaborative and equity-driven approach, this program aims to empower participants to effect meaningful change in their respective fields. To apply or inquire further, prospective participants are encouraged to contact Professor Renata Schiavo, the Seminar Director, at renata@renataschiavo.com.
