This program was initially implemented to support USAID's strategic objectives in population, family planning and reproductive health by focusing on recruiting, placing and supporting mid-and senior-level fellows.

Program objectives:

To improve the management and leadership of selected population, family planning, and reproductive health programs by:

1. developing and supporting quality fellowships;
2. improving leadership and management practices and skills; and
3. enhancing work processes.

Program Description:

The fellowship experience is considered a key component of PLPII. Activities related to this component include recruitment, placement and support of fellows. Recruitment and placement considerations are based on relevance to USAID strategic objectives, impact on program and potential for professional learning experience. Other considerations are foreign language, an ability to act as a mentor to potential leaders and to inspire and motivate others, a willingness to take political and professional risks, a vision of population dynamics and reproductive health, and a broad knowledge of and passionate concern for the impact on population. Fellows are placed in various regions of the world that include Africa, Asia/ Near East, Latin America and Washington DC. In response to the needs of the fellow and other PHN Professional staff, leadership and professional development activities have been designed. Activities include on-site workshops and technical sessions, individual and team consultations, self -study, virtual conferencing, mentoring, and selected organizational interventions.

Selection Procedure:

Minimum requirements for candidates include an advance degree or technical certification, five or more years of relevant experience, work experience in at least one developing country, and commitment to participate in the leadership development program. Fellowships are advertised, as they become available.

Length of Fellowship:

PLP fellows' contracts typically are for a two-year term. Approval for terms exceeding two years is needed from the G/PHN/DAA and the PHN Inter-Bureau Personnel Committee (IBPC) which is comprised of G/PHN and regional bureaus' representatives.

Public Health Institute's Population Leadership Program