Communication for Development
Cover image © Unsplash
Communication for Development
15–17 October 2024
The course is available in English
Introduction to the course
Discover the transformative power of communication for development with our comprehensive course. Designed for individuals passionate about driving real change, this course offers a practical and immersive learning experience. Over 3 days, participants will delve into the strategic aspects of communication in the development sector, testing out the tools and skills needed to make a lasting impact. Our instructors, experts in the field, will not only share their knowledge but also facilitate a vibrant exchange of ideas. Join us on this exciting journey! Together, we will explore the latest trends and innovative approaches in communication for development, empowering you to unleash your creativity and drive positive change. Are you ready to unlock your potential?
Who attends this course?
This course attracts a diverse range of people dedicated to driving development and fostering effective communication. It is tailored for professionals from various backgrounds, including development experts, policy makers, communication officers, project managers, and creative professionals. This unique blend of expertise and perspectives results in a rich learning experience where participants can exchange ideas, challenge conventional thinking, and develop innovative approaches.
What can you expect?
Throughout the course, you’ll explore three core areas critical to effective communication in the development sector:
- Strategic communication planning: Learn how to design and implement communication strategies that align with your organization’s goals and objectives.
- Storytelling and content creation: Develop the skills to craft compelling, human-centred narratives that engage and resonate with your audience.
- Channels and promotion: Explore best practices for leveraging various communication channels, both online and offline, to maximize the reach and impact of your messages.
Participants will work on fictitious challenges tailored to their backgrounds and interests, allowing them to apply these concepts in a practical context. Additionally, there will be opportunities for group work focused on addressing specific challenges from your professional roles. This approach ensures that the skills and knowledge you gain are directly applicable to your projects, making your learning experience both practical and relevant.
Course structure
The course offers a balance between theoretical insights and practical applications.
Detailed schedule
Day 1: Strategic communication planning
Morning: The day begins with an introduction and icebreaker activity, followed by a keynote session on Strategic Communication Planning. This session sets the foundation for effective and impactful communication initiatives.
Afternoon: Engage in an interactive discussion on identifying communication challenges and potential solutions. The day wraps up with a session on measuring impact using the PDCA (Plan-Do-Check-Act) cycle, equipping participants with actionable insights for planning, execution and monitoring communication strategies.
Day 2: Storytelling and content creation
Morning: After a recap of Day 1, delve into the power of storytelling in C4D through a keynote session. Interactive activities will include stakeholder mapping and creating user personas to address specific communication challenges
Afternoon: Participants will engage in individual work, practicing the use of storytelling arcs to develop effective communication outputs.
Day 3: Channels and promotion
Morning: The final day starts with a recap of Day 2, leading into a keynote on building engagement on social media. The session continues with practical guidance on balancing online and offline communication channels.
Afternoon: The course concludes with hands-on workshops where participants can choose between crash courses on social media basics, podcasting, design for social media, or video production, ensuring that you leave with tangible skills to apply immediately in your work.
Team
The course is provided by the Learning Innovation Programme of the ITCILO. Massimiliano Leone, Melisa Zelaya, and Alexa Wybraniec will be your facilitators and coaches. They will be joined by a team of international communication experts who will inspire you with personal stories, inspirational talks, and out-of-the box ideas.
Previous speakers
- Roxanna Samii, Former Chief Digital Strategy at UN Environment: Roxanna is a highly accomplished communication professional with extensive experience in international financial institutions and the United Nations. She is a skilled social media strategist with expertise in knowledge management for development.
- Jennifer Hauseman, Former Director of Communication and Information Management at the International Committee of the Red Cross: Jennifer is a seasoned expert in communication and information management, specializing in humanitarian work. She spearheaded modernizing initiatives, digitizing communications and implementing human-centered project management.
- Alessandra Vellucci, Director at United Nations Information Service: Alessandra is a distinguished leader in public information, communications, international relations, and training within the United Nations. She held progressive positions, including Chief of the Intergovernmental Support Service at UNCTAD in Geneva.
Certification
Upon successful completion of this course, which includes a final assessment, you will receive a Certificate of Achievement - a testament to your dedication, commitment, and knowledge. Add it to your email signature, LinkedIn profile, and personal website to showcase your professional development.
Take your communication skills to the next level with a Communication for Development course facilitated by United Nations professionals and global experts. Personalize your training by choosing from learning streams like communication campaigns, donor reporting, social media, or project communication.
Are you ready to drive real change and make a lasting impact?
Tailor-made course
Looking for a learning experience tailored to your specific needs? Our Learning Innovation team specializes in creating customized design thinking and communication workshops that cater to the unique requirements of local, national, and international stakeholders.
Whether you need a workshop that addresses specific challenges in your organization or are looking to enhance the communication skills of your team, we can create a programme that aligns with your objectives.
Our customized workshops go beyond the traditional one-size-fits-all approach. We leverage design thinking methodologies to ensure that the learning experience is engaging, interactive, and highly relevant to your context. By collaborating closely with you, we develop a programme that addresses your specific challenges and empowers you to achieve your goals effectively.
Contact our team today to explore the possibilities and learn more about our customized learning experiences.