USU–WHO WPR/TDR Collaboration

The Principal Investigator of the Joint World Health Organization Western Pacific Region (WPR)/TDR Impact Grants for Implementation Research for Regional Priorities conducted an outreach and dissemination activity in Nias District, North Sumatra, Indonesia. The research project, titled “Integrating Cross-Sectoral Collaboration and Local Culture-Based Education: An Implementation Research for Soil-Transmitted Helminth Control in Nias District,” was introduced to the District Health Office and the District Education Office.

Led by Dr. Fotarisman Zaluchu from Universitas Sumatera Utara, and joined by team members from the Medan Public Health Laboratory Center, Bernike Ambarita and Ahadi Kurniawan, the research team visited three schools across two selected sub-districts. During these visits, the researchers engaged in discussions and provided explanations to parents of primary school students about the study. The activity continued with the distribution of stool sample containers for primary school children, aimed at identifying the presence of soil-transmitted helminth (STH) eggs.

This initiative reflects USU’s commitment to addressing local challenges while contributing to the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The research is fully supported by the Faculty of Social and Political Sciences (FISIP) of USU, where the research team is based. The next phase of the project will involve culturally grounded educational interventions in collaboration with relevant stakeholders.