RAWALPINDI:Fatima Jinnah Women University (FJWU) organized a special commemorative event under the theme “Shukriya Frontline Workers” to mark World Polio Day, paying tribute to the dedicated efforts of polio vaccinators in protecting children against paralytic disability.
Addressing the ceremony, Punjab CM’s Focal Person on Polio, Uzma Kardar lauded the relentless commitment of frontline polio workers across the province. She emphasized that sustained public confidence and parent cooperation remain essential to maintaining the progress achieved against the virus.
“Parents must ensure that every child under five years of age receives anti-polio drops during every national immunization drive without fail,” she urged.
Speaking on the occasion, Head of the Provincial Anti-Polio Program Khalid Parvez revealed that zero polio cases have been reported in Punjab during the current to date. He underscored that despite encouraging epidemiological trends, continuous environmental surveillance and universal child vaccination remain vital to completely eradicate the virus.
Vice Chancellor FJWU Professor Dr. Bushra Mirza on the occasion emphasized the role of students in creating higher degree of civic response to anti-polio drives. She further highlighted academic institutions and students in countering vaccine hesitancy, dispelling mis-information and promoting community awareness.
The vice chancellor also extended full cooperation of the university with health department in awareness programmes.
Chief Executive Officer District Health Authority Rawalpindi Dr. Ehsan Ghani underscored the need of institutionalizing the efforts being rendered to eradicate polio from the society, and the country at large.
During the event, university students and day-care children created art exhibits themed around frontline healthcare workers.
Students in attendance formally pledged to raise awareness among parents to support a polio-free future for Pakistan. World Polio Day is observed globally on October 24.