Strengthening Institutional Public Health Messaging Capacities

On 18–19 May 2026, the Institutional Health Communication Lab brought together communication professionals from Kosovo’s public health institutions for a two-day intensive training focused on strengthening strategic, evidence-based communication in healthcare. The training, organized by the IHS Project was led by Prof. Dr. L. Suzanne Suggs.

Designed in response to the growing need for trust-building, effective public engagement, and countering misinformation, the training emphasized communication not only as a tool for information-sharing but as a driver of behaviour change and institutional credibility.

Participants engaged in practical exercises and discussions on key topics, including communication barriers, audience resistance, and strategies to increase public trust. Sessions explored evidence-based messaging, behavioural insights, and approaches to tackling misinformation, alongside hands-on simulations of real-life communication challenges.

The programme equipped participants with practical tools to communicate clearly, responsibly, and effectively in complex public health environments. Through workshops and group work, participants developed skills to craft compelling, human-centred messages and respond to public concerns with professionalism and credibility.

Participants highlighted the training as highly practical and relevant to their daily work, noting improvements in their ability to design clear and motivating messages, strengthen institutional communication, and apply critical thinking in addressing misinformation and engaging the public.

The training is part of ongoing efforts by the IHS Project to support Kosovo’s health institutions in building modern, transparent, and resilient communication systems that enhance public trust and improve health outcomes.