The Gujarat education department has instructed schools across the state to appoint nodal teachers and conduct parent-teacher meetings (PTMs) as part of an awareness campaign for the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination programme aimed at preventing cervical cancer among adolescent girls.
According to a circular issued by the Directorate of Primary Education, both government and private schools must participate in the initiative. Schools have been asked to appoint a nodal teacher who will coordinate with local health department teams during the vaccination drive. The nodal teacher will also prepare a list of eligible students, assist in organising vaccination sessions, and ensure proper communication between schools, parents, and health officials.
As part of the programme, schools will organise parent-teacher meetings to inform parents about the importance, benefits, and safety of the HPV vaccine. During these meetings, health experts and teachers will explain how the vaccine helps prevent cervical cancer and address any concerns or doubts parents may have. Written consent from parents or guardians will be required before the vaccine is administered to students.
The vaccination campaign mainly targets girls around 14 years of age, including those who may have crossed the recommended age but have not yet received the vaccine. Schools will help identify these students and facilitate their participation in the programme. Vaccinations will be administered by health department teams at designated centres such as government health facilities or through school-linked sessions.
To further spread awareness, schools will also display posters, banners, and other information materials explaining the role of HPV vaccination in preventing cervical cancer. Authorities believe that involving schools and parents will help increase acceptance of the vaccine and ensure that more eligible girls are protected from the disease.