World Polio Day Awareness Seminar, PGPI, PHSA, Peshawar

Event Title: World Polio Day Awareness Seminar
Date: 22nd October 2024
Time: 10:30 AM – 1:05 PM
Venue: PGPI, PHSA
Chief Guest: MPA Mr. Arbab Uman Khan
Other Guests:

Dr Shaheen Afridi Principal PGPI
Ex-DGHS KPK

Dr. Feroz Shah, DDHO Tehsil ShahAlam

Muhammad Sarir Khan, Communication Officer Tehsil ShahAlam

Dr. Niaz Afridi, Vice Principal PGPI

Dr. Shahsawar, Disease Surveillance Officer

Dr. Syed Sohaib Daud Gillani.

Introduction

The World Polio Day Awareness Seminar was held at PGPI, PHSA, aiming to enhance awareness about polio eradication efforts and the importance of vaccination in combating this disease. The event brought together various stakeholders including health officials, educators, students and community elders to discuss current challenges and strategies for eradication of polio.

Agenda Overview

The seminar began with registration at 10:30 AM, followed by the recitation of the Holy Quran. Dr. Syed Suhaib Daud Gillani delivered the welcome remarks, emphasizing the importance of collective action in the fight against polio.

The agenda included the following key presentations:

1. Introduction to World Polio Day – Dr. Feroz Shah highlighted the significance of this day in raising awareness about polio.
2. Speech on Polio Eradication Efforts – Muhammad Sarir Khan discussed ongoing initiatives and the role of community engagement.
3. Polio in Public Health: Past, Present, and Future – Dr. Niaz Afridi provided insights into the historical context and current status of polio eradication efforts.
4. The Role of EPI in Polio Eradication – Dr. Feroz Shah outlined the Expanded Programme on Immunization (EPI) and its contributions.
5. AFP Surveillance – Dr. Shahsawar elaborated on Acute Flaccid Paralysis (AFP) surveillance as a crucial component of disease monitoring.
6. Keynote Address – MPA Mr. Arbab Uman Khan delivered an inspiring address, urging continued efforts towards polio eradication.

Engagement Activities

A Q&A session was held, led by Dr. Shahsawar and Muhammad Sarir Khan, allowing participants to engage directly with the speakers and discuss pressing concerns.

Polio Ambassadors Declaration Signing Ceremony, an oath was taken from the Polio Ambassadors, led by MPA Mr. Arbab Uman Khan. Students and faculty from PGPI pledged their commitment to promoting polio awareness in their communities.

The seminar also included a Certificates and Shields Awarding Ceremony to recognize individuals and organizations for their outstanding contributions to polio eradication efforts.

Conclusion

The seminar concluded with an inauguration ceremony led by MPA Mr. Arbab Uman Khan, officially marking the commitment of PGPI to the cause of polio eradication. Refreshments were served afterward, providing an opportunity for informal discussions among participants.

The event was a significant step in mobilizing community support for polio eradication and highlighted the collaborative efforts needed to achieve a polio-free future.