Building stronger project management for Indonesia’s health programmes

by Rachel Morgan News Editor

The Indonesian Ministry of Health has launched a comprehensive project management training initiative to address systemic gaps in the execution of national health programs.

Addressing Operational Gaps

Leaders within the ministry have long managed complex health programs involving multiple stakeholders, yet many lacked formal training in project management. This gap contributed to fragmented coordination, budget inefficiencies and project delays.

To resolve these challenges, the Ministry of Health, through its Centre for Civil Servants Competency Development (P2KA), implemented targeted capacity-building support. The initiative received both technical and financial assistance from the World Health Organization (WHO).

Did You Know? The training engaged 82 civil servants from 12 different directorates and units, utilizing case studies focused on cervical cancer elimination, free health screenings, and quality services in district hospitals.

Training Structure and Implementation

The program was conducted in Jakarta between May and July 2025. The training consisted of five batches, with each session lasting three days.

Training Structure and Implementation
Expert Insight World Health Organization

The curriculum blended international project management standards with practical, hands-on exercises. Participants applied these tools to their own programs to better navigate real-world challenges.

Across the five batches, participants completed nine exercises and developed 15 case studies. They also prepared stakeholder engagement plans and project charters.

the ministry introduced a digital project planning tool. This technology allows for the simulation of resource management and scheduling in real time.

Expert Insight: By shifting from intuitive management to standardized project frameworks, the ministry is not just improving administrative speed, but potentially safeguarding public resources. The focus on measurable indicators suggests a move toward greater accountability in how national health priorities are delivered.

Measurable Impact and Outcomes

The training yielded significant results, with post-training assessments showing an average knowledge increase of more than 40 points. Approximately 90% of participants committed to integrating at least one project management tool into their professional work.

“This training is essential for civil servants at the Ministry of Health to equip us with effective project management methods,” said Dwi Meilani, Head of P2KA. “In the future, many programmes and projects will be implemented. We must prepare to execute projects efficiently and achieve the desired outcomes.”

On the final day of the sessions, teams presented project plans that demonstrated stronger coordination among stakeholders and clearer, more measurable indicators.

Future Outlook

Further training is planned for 2026, with continued support from the WHO. This next phase may aim to reach a broader group of participants.

How to Pivot into Healthcare Project Management (Without Starting Over)

The ministry is likely to focus on establishing a sustainable training system. Such a system could safeguard the continuity of long-term capacity development across the organization.

Improved management capacity may lead to more timely delivery of health programs that align with national priorities. This could result in a more efficient use of public resources, potentially benefiting communities nationwide.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who provided the support for this training program?

The training was implemented by the Ministry of Health’s Centre for Civil Servants Competency Development (P2KA) with technical and financial support from the World Health Organization (WHO).

Who provided the support for this training program?
World Health Organization Centre Civil

What were the specific goals of the project management training?

The training aimed to strengthen the practical skills of working team leaders and project management officers responsible for national health programs to ensure more efficient execution and better outcomes.

What results were observed after the training?

Assessments showed an average knowledge increase of over 40 points, and around 90% of the 82 participants committed to using at least one project management tool in their daily work.

Do you believe standardized project management is the most critical factor in improving the delivery of public health services?

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