ISLAMABAD: In a significant step toward advancing Pakistan’s immunization efforts, the Expanded Programme on Immunization (EPI) and the Polio Eradication Initiative (PEI) have formally signed the EPI–PEI Synergy Framework—a unified strategy to integrate planning, operations, and outreach for stronger child health protection nationwide.
The Framework was presented and endorsed during a high-level meeting at the National Emergency Operations Centre (NEOC), chaired by the Prime Minister’s Focal Person, Ayesha Raza Farooq, and attended by DG FDI, Dr. Soofia Yunus, along with National Coordinator NEOC–PEI, Mr. Muhammed Anwaarul Haq. The endorsement demonstrates strong leadership ownership and a collective commitment to accelerate immunization impact across Pakistan.
Leadership also acknowledged and appreciated the dedicated efforts of the EPI–PEI Synergy Task Team, led by the National Technical Focal Person PEI, whose continued follow-up resulted in the successful development and endorsement of the new Framework.
“This synergy marks a new era of integration — ensuring that every child receives life-saving vaccines through a more efficient and responsive system,” said PMFP Ayesha Raza Farooq, lauding the joint resolve to accelerate results on the ground.
The DG FDI, Dr. Soofia Yunus, highlighted that the Framework will help “improve planning, streamline operations, and maximize the reach of routine immunization services, particularly in high-risk and underserved areas.”
Echoing this vision, Mr. Muhammed Anwaarul Haq, National Coordinator NEOC, said: “Closer alignment between the two programmes will help sustain polio and routine immunization gains, close immunity gaps, and deliver stronger outcomes for communities across the country.”
The EPI–PEI Synergy Framework aims to strengthen collaboration by optimizing workforce capacity, enhancing surveillance systems, integrating outreach efforts, and improving coverage through coordinated service delivery. With this unified initiative, NEOC and FDI reaffirmed their commitment to protect every child from vaccine-preventable diseases — including polio — through a more proactive and harmonized immunization system.
