District-level workshops on Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination were held in Kiphire and Mon on October 12 and October 9, respectively, to strengthen vaccination coverage, raise community awareness and promote collective efforts to prevent cervical cancer among adolescent girls.
In Kiphire, the District Task Force on Immunization (DTFI), in collaboration with Jhpiego, organised the workshop at the Conference Hall of District Hospital.
The meeting reviewed the progress of HPV vaccination, discussed challenges and explored ways to improve programme implementation through coordination among government departments and other stakeholders.
Jhpiego presented the objectives of the workshop and an overview of the vaccination programme, while the District Immunization Officer highlighted the district’s progress, existing challenges and opportunities for improvement.
Discussions focused on the importance of HPV vaccination in preventing cervical cancer, community mobilisation, awareness campaigns and effective communication. Participants also discussed ways to address misconceptions, concerns and vaccine hesitancy through accurate information and coordinated outreach.
Meanwhile, a district-level coordination workshop was held at DRDA Hall, Mon, on October 9, bringing together officials from the district administration and health department, representatives of Jhpiego, churches, schools, student organisations, women’s groups and other community stakeholders.
Deputy Commissioner of Mon, Wennyei Konyak, NCS, stressed the need for greater community awareness and parental education. She encouraged schools, churches, student bodies and community leaders to spread information about HPV vaccination and address parents’ concerns.
Chief Medical Officer of Mon, Dr Supongmenla Walling, highlighted the need for joint efforts to improve vaccination coverage. She said the district needed practical strategies to overcome low vaccine acceptance and reach more eligible girls.
According to the CMO, Mon had planned 118 vaccination sessions for 2,235 beneficiaries, of which 116 had been conducted. However, only 54 adolescent girls had received the vaccine, highlighting the need for stronger awareness and outreach efforts.
Jhpiego Senior Advisor Raju Tamang emphasised that schools, faith-based organisations, civil society groups and community leaders must work with the health department to build trust and improve vaccine uptake. He also encouraged stakeholders to learn from successful initiatives in neighbouring states and adapt suitable approaches locally.
Both workshops highlighted the importance of coordinated action, community participation and reliable information in improving HPV vaccination coverage and strengthening cervical cancer prevention efforts.
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