ABSTRACT:
Abstract Health promotion is a critical yet underdeveloped discipline in many countries of South-East Asia Region (SEAR), where structured training pathways and competency-based education remain limited. Although global and regional frameworks such as the Bangkok Charter for Health Promotion and the Geneva Charter for Well-being emphasize capacity building, leadership, and multisectoral action, systematic information on existing health promotion services, education, and workforce training needs across SEAR countries has been lacking. This study aimed to assess the current health promotion system, education, and training needs across ten SEAR countries. A mixed-methods, multi-country study was conducted between 2024 and 2025, comprising three components: (1) a health promotion situation analysis and capacity mapping; (2) an assessment of existing health promotion curricula across medical schools, health promotion departments, nursing schools, and teacher training institutions; and (3) a regional training needs assessment. Data were collected through document reviews, qualitative interviews, focus group discussions, and quantitative surveys involving key informants from ministries of health, other government sectors and academia. Standardized tools were adapted from WHO frameworks, the Ottawa Charter action areas, and the Galway Consensus competencies. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, while qualitative data underwent thematic analysis. The study captured perspectives from a diverse and experienced cohort of health promotion practitioners, educators, and decision-makers across the region. Findings provide a comprehensive overview of existing capacities, gaps in education and training, workforce challenges, and priority areas for strengthening health promotion systems. The results are expected to inform regional and national strategies, support competency-based curriculum development, and guide future investments in health promotion workforce development across SEAR countries. The results of this study will be formally presented, and an electronic book (e-book) version of the full report will be disseminated to participants upon request.