Creating the Next Generation Nutrition Leaders: The Uganda Nutrition Fellowship (UNF) Program

Background: Uganda is addressing malnutrition through a multi-sectoral nutrition strategy. Improving nutrition requires strong nutrition leaders at every level. Universities provide Uganda’s graduates with a theoretical foundation in nutrition, but little practical experience.

Methods: The UNF strengthened the professional skills of recent nutrition graduates through practical experience, professional development, and mentorship. During 2013-2014 eight Fellows were placed in government, NGOs, and clinical facilities for 12 months. Fellows engaged in policy development, nutrition governance, case management, capacity building, and community mobilization. The UNF provided professional development in communication, management, leadership, and team building -  skills needed for next generation leaders. Using their newly-refined skills, Fellows completed an independent project that addressed a programmatic, policy or practical challenge observed during their Fellowship.

Findings/Recommendations: This proved to be an effective approach to build the capacity of young nutrition graduates; the eight Fellows all found full-time employment or have decided to pursue advanced degrees in nutrition. Findings from the first round of the UNF identified a need for longer term placements with additional professional development opportunities. The 2015-2016 Fellowship will include 12 Fellows with 18 month placements. While programs such as the UNF can provide the funding and management; other stakeholders play a key role in supporting and mentoring Fellows to become leaders in the field.