Apply Now for the 2026 International Public Health Leadership Program (IPPHL)

Application Deadline: August 5, 2025

The University of Washington’s Evans School of Public Policy & Governance has officially opened applications for the 2026 cohort of the International Public Health Leadership Program (IPPHL). This highly competitive, eight-month fellowship is designed to strengthen the leadership and policy capacities of mid-career professionals working in or closely with Ministries of Health across Africa.

The IPPHL is fully funded and delivered in partnership with the Center for Creative Leadership, with generous support from the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation. Since 2017, the program has trained 192 public health leaders across 33 African countries.

Program Overview

IPPHL provides structured, high-impact learning to public health leaders through a unique blend of in-person and online modules. The curriculum is tailored to equip fellows with the practical tools required to shape health policies, lead effective teams, and drive large-scale health system improvements.

Key themes include:

• Policy analysis and formulation
• Leadership development and self-awareness
• Evidence-based decision-making
• Implementation strategies and evaluation

Fellows gain exposure to global health experts and are supported by personalized coaching and peer collaboration throughout the program.

Program Structure and Funding

The IPPHL is a non-degree, non-credit executive leadership program. It includes:

• Two-week in-person Seattle residency at the University of Washington
• Online course modules that fit around participants’ work schedules
• Capstone Seminar to demonstrate applied leadership development

There are no tuition or program fees. The fellowship covers:

• Roundtrip airfare for the in-person components
• Hotel accommodations during the Seattle Residency and Capstone Seminar
• Most direct costs of participation

Limited financial support is provided to help cover visa fees and internet costs. Participants are responsible for arranging their own visas and meeting internet connectivity requirements.

Candidate Profile

Target participants for IPPHL 2026 include mid-career professionals currently managing public health programs within African governments. Ideal candidates:

• Are actively employed in a health-related public sector role in Africa
• Supervise teams or projects in public health
• Possess a background in medicine, public health, policy, or development
• Apply evidence and policy thinking in their current roles

The program prioritizes candidates who are currently based and working in African countries. Applicants must submit a letter of support from their employer confirming their role and ability to participate in the program activities.

University lecturers, professionals from international NGOs or for-profit institutions, and PhD students do not align with the typical IPPHL candidate profile. Full-time PhD students are not eligible.

All sessions and assignments are conducted in English. While no formal test scores are required, a strong command of English is necessary for participation.

Be one of the first to see new opportunities, Follow Us on social media: Facebook, Whatsapp Channel, LinkedIn

Key Dates

• Application Deadline: 5 August 2025 at 11:59 PM GMT
• Program Start: 2026 (specific dates to be provided to selected candidates)

To stay informed about future opportunities and announcements, follow IPPHL on LinkedIn.

Application Process

Interested candidates can review program details and submit their applications through the official portal provided by the Evans School at the University of Washington. The 2026 Program Brochure and FAQs are also available to help applicants understand expectations, requirements, and program benefits.

For more information and to apply, CLICK HERE