Media Professionals Empowered in Polio Eradication Initiative

An orientation session was recently conducted in Abbottabad to educate media professionals on their crucial role in the global initiative to eradicate polio. Organized by the Emergency Operations Centre (EOC) Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) in partnership with the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), the workshop aimed to equip participants with the necessary knowledge and skills to combat misinformation and promote accurate reporting in support of polio eradication.

The event brought together key stakeholders including representatives from UNICEF, the World Health Organization (WHO), EOC, senior journalists, and health reporters from various media outlets. Dr. Wisam Hazem underscored the significant influence journalists hold in shaping public opinion towards polio vaccination, stressing the importance of factual reporting to counter negative narratives.

Dr. Nabeel Liaqat from WHO delved into the epidemiology of the poliovirus and underscored the critical role of regular vaccination in eradicating polio. Media support was identified as essential in fostering community trust and encouraging vaccine acceptance.

Shadab Younas highlighted the pivotal role of health reporting in advancing public health goals, particularly in the context of polio eradication. She urged journalists to enhance their reporting skills to effectively communicate the importance of vaccination to the public.

Participants were provided guidance on crafting impactful stories for both print and electronic media by Safiullah Gul, focusing on promoting positive behaviors related to public health.

The workshop concluded with the President of the Peshawar Press Club expressing gratitude for the initiative and emphasizing the necessity of continuous capacity-building workshops for journalists. The session was characterized by insightful discussions and active participation, with attendees offering valuable insights to further strengthen polio eradication efforts.

Certificates and shields were distributed to participants as tokens of appreciation for their dedication to supporting the global mission of eradicating polio.

The orientation session in Abbottabad served as a platform to empower media professionals with the knowledge and skills needed to contribute effectively to polio eradication efforts. By fostering accurate reporting and promoting vaccine acceptance, journalists play a vital role in shaping public perceptions and driving positive health outcomes. Such collaborative initiatives are essential in advancing the goal of a polio-free world, highlighting the importance of collective action and informed communication in public health endeavors.