Statement
Amref International University (AMIU) recognises the important advocacy role of journalists in informing the public in promotive, preventive, rehabilitative and palliative health with the introduction of a Health Communication & Journalismcourse.
Beginning March 23 2020, the short course intends to train the next generation of factual and evidence-based reporters. It provides learners with a thorough understanding of topical issues in health in order to aid in generating well researched, analytical and in-depth articles.
“This course is designed for persons passionate about factual and evidence-based journalism. As a university we will continue to build capacities for journalists by offering short courses. In the next two years, we will upgrade this training to a Postgraduate Diploma or a Master’s Degree,” says Prof. Marion Mutugi the vice chancellor of AMIU.
Amref Health Africa, AMIU together with other partners, designed the course with the aim of increasing accurate information and also address the sensitivities and ethical issues around health reporting.
According to Technical Support unit, the training model offers a drastic shift from basic reporting to context and analysis.
“With this, reporters are able to provide their consumers with in-depth stories on issues that matter to them,” says Prof. Joachim Osur, Amref Health Africa’s Technical Director.
The course targets journalists, public relations officers and health managers, but it’s open to anyone.
What does the course focus on?
The practical orientedHealth Communication & Journalismcourse will be delivered through face-to-face engagements and video interviews with leading experts.
The modules cover the following topics:
- a) Fundamentals of Health Communication
- b) Overview of the Health Sector
- c) Communicating Emerging and re-emerging Health issues in Africa
- d) Global Health Policies and Social Health Determinants
- e) Research for Health and Data Reporting
- f) Reporting Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights
- g) Bio-ethics and Health Laws
- h) Media and Advocacy in Health Reporting
- i) Innovation and Technology in Health
Course design
The one-month course (5 days course work at AMIU, 21 days field case study at participant’s workplace & 2 days feedback meeting at AMIU). The course is priced at $800 (USD).
