Government and Public Affairs Communication

Course overview

Government communicators must explain complex policies to diverse publics, respond to intense media and political scrutiny, and engage legislators and interest groups, all while maintaining credibility in a polarised information environment. This government communication training equips communicators in ministries, counties and public agencies to meet those challenges.

Participants learn the principles of government communication, including transparency, accountability and the right of access to information. They practise communicating policy clearly, planning public information campaigns, engaging citizens through public participation forums and digital channels, and managing relationships with the media. The public affairs part covers engaging parliament and county assemblies, working with interest groups, and preparing for hearings. The course also addresses misinformation and disinformation, election-period communication rules and crisis communication in the public sector. Case studies come from regional governments and agencies.

Participants leave able to communicate the work of government clearly and credibly, and to engage citizens and legislators effectively.

What you will be able to do

• Apply principles of transparent government communication
• Explain policies clearly to diverse audiences
• Plan public information campaigns
• Engage citizens through participation forums and digital channels
• Engage legislators and interest groups effectively
• Counter misinformation and communicate in crises

Who should attend

For communication, public affairs and policy staff in national and county governments, regulators and public agencies.

• Government communication officers
• Public affairs officers
• Policy officers
• County communication officers
• Regulator communication staff
• Public participation officers

Course outline

Fees are per participant in US dollars and cover tuition, course materials and your certificate. Travel and accommodation are not included.