AfriComNet’s mandate in capacity building includes sharing materials and resources, holding focused workshops, training practicums and working with African universities to build skills and capacity in strategic communication for health and development. Periodically, AfriComNet sends “Must Read” articles and publications to all members.

AfriComNet has developed session plans, presentations, and handouts for a 5-day training of trainers course on Strategic Communication and HIV and AIDS.

AfriComNet is also working to define core competencies and standards of practice and certification for strategic communication practitioners.

AfriComNet has launched an exciting and innovative initiative with institutions of higher learning and international NGO’s in three East and Southern African countries. The main goal is to develop capacity in strategic communication for health and development.

The “centers of excellence” are the Department of Information and Mass Communication, University of Namibia, the School of Journalism at the University of Nairobi and a consortium of institutions in Uganda including the Institute of Public Health and Department of Mass Communication, Makerere University and the Mildmay Centre.

These “centers of excellence” are working together with AfriComNet and the Health Communication Partnership to develop and offer short training courses in HIV and AIDS communication.

The first three short courses, which will become available in early 2007, are: The Basics of HIV and AIDS and Strategic Communication; and Research, Monitoring and Evaluation for Strategic HIV/AIDS Communication Programmes.

AfriComNet intends to expand its partnerships with universities over the next few months, and plans to add new short courses which eventually can form a full diploma or undergraduate course on HIV and AIDS communication.

If you are working at a University, and would like to network with us, please CONTACT US.