Applications are now open for the Data for Health Leadership Lab (D4HLL) 2026, a professional development programme designed to equip public health professionals in the United States with stronger data science and leadership skills.

The fully remote initiative combines virtual learning, practical exercises, live sessions and peer collaboration to help participants turn data analysis into meaningful action. It aims to strengthen their ability to make evidence-based decisions, improve public health programmes and address practical challenges within their organisations and communities.

Public health institutions rely on accurate and reliable data to guide decisions, allocate resources and improve health outcomes. However, technical knowledge alone may not be sufficient to translate analytical findings into effective interventions.

The D4HLL programme addresses this gap by integrating data skills with leadership development. Participants will learn to communicate findings effectively, collaborate across teams and apply evidence to organisational priorities and public health improvement.

The programme is intended for early- to mid-career public health professionals who work with data or contribute to data-informed decision-making and want to develop their leadership capacity.

Eligible applicants should work in public health data, analytics, informatics, evaluation, epidemiology or a related field and have foundational experience working with data. They should also be interested in communicating insights more effectively, influencing decisions and taking on greater responsibilities.

Such responsibilities may include leading projects, mentoring colleagues or contributing to organisational decision-making. Applicants should also demonstrate an interest in connecting data with organisational priorities and community needs, alongside curiosity, adaptability and openness to new approaches.

Through the programme, participants will strengthen their data science and analytical capabilities while developing leadership competencies in systems thinking, communication, collaboration and change management.

The training will also focus on translating data insights into actionable decisions and applying newly acquired skills to public health challenges, including data modernisation, quality improvement and programme planning.

Participants will have opportunities to connect with other public health professionals, collaborate with peers and engage with leaders through professional discussions and learning activities. Those who successfully complete the programme will receive a certificate of completion.

The programme combines independent study with virtual instruction and practical activities. Its learning structure includes a virtual orientation and programme kickoff, monthly learning modules, live online sessions and applied activities linked to participants’ professional responsibilities.

Additional components include peer learning, collaboration, leadership discussions, professional development opportunities and an asynchronous community of practice. This format is designed to help participants incorporate their learning into their existing public health roles.

Interested professionals who meet the eligibility criteria can apply online through the programme’s application form.

Application form: https://app.smartsheet.com/b/form/01a0f42318b77b218db9fd48f8a9fc35

SOURCE: MSME Africa Online