RTCCD and Monash University visit the National Institute of Hygiene and Epidemiology

On June 25, the Research and Training Centre for Community Development (RTCCD) visited the National Institute of Hygiene and Epidemiology (NIHE) together with Professor Jane Fisher and two experts on child mental development from Monash University.

The purpose of the visit was to discuss strategies for integrating positive parenting guidance interventions into the National Expanded Program on Immunization (NEPI), within the framework of the “Enabling Mountainous and Rural Children from Five Provinces in Vietnam to Grow and Thrive” (EM-THRIVE) project.

RTCCD shared results from three phases of project implementation across 109 communes and wards in Ha Nam province. Statistically significant differences were found in cognitive, motor, and language development scores between children in the intervention group and those in the control group. Based on these findings, the Ministry of Health issued Decision No. 40/2023 and Decision No. 2246/2024, which mandate guidelines for periodic health check-ups for children under five and under two years of age, respectively.

RTCCD also presented project activities and discussed both the rationale and potential benefits of integrating these interventions into wider health sector initiatives, particularly in immunization as well as maternal and child healthcare.

Experts shared information about NEPI’s implementation and monitoring systems, funding mechanisms for program maintenance, and the publication of communication materials. NIHE expressed support for the project concept, noting the effectiveness and accessibility of the short 3–5 minute video clips. Both parties agreed to collaborate on developing scripts and videos focusing on the benefits of vaccination, abnormal symptoms following immunization, and appropriate management methods.

The NEPI office committed to providing technical support and participating in supervisory visits to provinces once the project is rolled out. Their involvement is expected to help increase immunization coverage nationwide, especially in remote areas.

Finally, activities from the Early Journey of Life (EJOL) program will be integrated into NEPI, starting in selected provinces, with the long-term goal of scaling up the model nationwide.