UNDIP, Semarang (30/6) – The Health Research Center (Puslitkes) of the Research and Development Institute Universitas Diponegoro (LPPM UNDIP) in collaboration with UNICEF held a “Monitoring and Evaluation of the Implementation of Advocacy Activities in the Acceleration of Routine Immunization for Zero Dose Reduction and Introduction of New Vaccines in Central Java” on Friday, June 19, 2026, in the Seminar Room of LPPM Universitas Diponegoro, 4th Floor, ICT Center Building, Tembalang, Semarang.
This activity is a follow-up to a series of advocacy efforts previously implemented in five target regencies/cities: Magelang City, Surakarta City, Tegal Regency, Wonosobo Regency, and Pekalongan Regency, and involves the Central Java Provincial Government. Monitoring and evaluation are conducted to review the progress of the implementation of agreed commitments to increase routine immunization coverage, reduce the number of children receiving zero doses, and strengthen the introduction of new vaccines in Central Java.
The event was officially opened by Prof. Dr. Ing. Suherman, S.T., M.T., Head of the Universitas Diponegoro’s Research and Development Institute (LPPM). In his opening speech, he emphasized the importance of cross-sector collaboration in supporting the success of the regional immunization program.
“Attempts to increase immunization coverage and reduce the number of zero dose children cannot be undertaken by one party alone. Strong synergy is needed between the government, academics, international organizations, and all stakeholders to ensure the policies developed can be implemented sustainably,” he said.
He also emphasized Universitas Diponegoro’s commitment to continue playing an active role through research, mentoring, and strengthening evidence-based policies to support public health development.
The event was attended by representatives from the Health Office, immunization program managers, and the Legal Department of the Regional Secretariat from the five target districts/cities, as well as the Central Java Provincial Government. In the main session, each region presented the progress of implementing their advocacy commitments, from the formation and operation of Working Groups (Pokja), the development of Regional Action Plans (RAD), to various strategies implemented to accelerate immunization coverage in their areas.
In addition to presentations from each region, the event also included an interactive discussion on achievements, challenges, supporting factors, best practices, and support needs for program implementation. The results of these discussions are expected to form the basis for developing strategic recommendations to strengthen policy support, cross-sector coordination, and the sustainability of the immunization program in Central Java.
On the occasion, Ermi Ndoen, Health and Nutrition Specialist from UNICEF Indonesia’s Surabaya Representative Office, emphasized that immunization is one of the best health investments for a child’s future. “The best gift for a child’s first birthday is complete immunization. By ensuring every child receives their immunizations on schedule, we are providing the best protection for their health and future,” she said.
Through this monitoring and evaluation activity, the Health Research Center (Puslitkes LPPM) of Universitas Diponegoro and UNICEF hope that the commitments made can continue to be translated into concrete actions in the regions. Continued collaboration between the government, university, and various stakeholders is expected to accelerate immunization coverage, reduce the number of children receiving zero dose, and ensure that every child has the right to optimal health protection. (Public Communication/UNDIP/Puslitkes LPPM)
