WASHINGTON, United States (CMC) – The Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) is urging eligible Caribbean professionals in public health, international relations and related fields to apply to the 2019 session of its “Leaders in International Health.”

According to PAHO, applications must be received by February 15. 

“The programme, which is cost-free for accepted applicants, seeks to develop professionals from the region’s countries who can understand, act on and advocate effectively for global health issues in a complex international context, characterised by challenges that require action across sectors and borders,” PAHO said.

Those accepted will participate in virtual learning activities in coordination with PAHO’s local office in their countries of origin, where they are expected to continue working in their respective institutions.

Participants will also pursue an individual project related to a priority area of public health work in their country, subregion or region, working in coordination with PAHO, country officials and other agencies, the statement said.

At the end of the programme, the health organisation says “participants will have strengthened their capacities for situation analysis, policy development and decision-making, negotiation and advocacy, project management, knowledge generation and exchange, and communication.” 

Since its creation in 1985, PAHO said its “Leaders in International Health” programme has traied over  630 professionals from 40 countries.