Unicef to introduce vaccine against cervical cancer

PESHAWAR:

UNICEF is currently running two major health and nutrition programs in Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa and it will introduce a vaccine against cervical cancer by next year to combat the disease in Pakistan.

K-P Health Minister, Syed Qasim Ali Shah held a meeting with a delegation from UNICEF at his office. The delegation, led by the Chief of UNICEF Peshawar Office, Radoslaw Rzehak, included other members such as Health Specialist, Dr Inamullah, Nutrition Specialist, Aien Khan Afridi and Immunisation Officer, Dr Kamran Qureshi.

During the meeting, Health Minister expressed the need to form a team of health donors to ensure that reforms in the Health Department adhere to international standards.

He also mentioned that a meeting with donors and implementing partners with the Health Department will be convened soon to discuss future reforms in health and ongoing changes within the department. He emphasised that the doors of his office are always open for donors and partners.

The delegation briefed the Health Minister about ongoing projects in the province under UNICEF’s cooperation. They briefed him about the support provided to the department so far. It was revealed that UNICEF is currently running two major health and nutrition programs in K-P province.

Solarization of the Charsadda Women and Children Hospital has been completed, and a Health Education Cell has been established in the DG Health Office with the support of UNICEF for public awareness.

The Health Minister expressed gratitude for UNICEF’s cooperation with the Health Department, stating that donors like UNICEF are essential for sustainable healthcare provision in the future.

He was informed that UNICEF is collaborating with government departments in the field of nutrition, including health department, three teaching hospitals, Khyber Medical University, and other seven universities, as well as Provincial Disaster Management Authority.

Published in The Express Tribune, March 28^th, 2024.