The Ghana Health Service (GHS), in collaboration with the Ghana Education Service (GES), through the School Health Education Programme (SHEP) and its partners, is set to undertake two rounds of the **Periodic Intensification of Routine Immunisation (PIRI), focusing on Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination in schools nationwide.
The exercise, announced by the Director-General of the Ghana Health Service, Dr. Samuel Kaba Akoriyea, is scheduled for October and November/December 2026, and aims to raise awareness of the routine HPV vaccine, improve vaccination uptake, and ensure that all eligible girls aged 9-14 years are protected against cervical cancer and other HPV-related diseases.
The exercise has been scheduled as follows:
– Round One: Monday, 19th to Friday, 23rd October 2026.
– Round Two: Monday, 30th November to Friday, 4th December 2026.
During the exercise, health staff will visit schools across the country to administer the HPV vaccine to all eligible girls aged 9-14 years who have not yet received the vaccine. This initiative is intended to strengthen routine immunisation efforts and increase protection against cervical cancer and other diseases associated with HPV infection.
Cervical cancer remains one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths among women in Ghana, and health experts say vaccination of young girls before exposure is the most effective preventive measure.
The Ghana Health Service respectfully calls on all stakeholders, including school authorities, parents, guardians, teachers, and community leaders, to support and cooperate with health teams to ensure the successful implementation of the exercise.
The GHS emphasized that the HPV vaccine is safe, effective and free, and has been approved by the Food and Drugs Authority and the .
The Ghana Health Service remains committed to protecting and promoting the health and well-being of all Ghanaians. It appreciates the continued collaboration and support of its partners and stakeholders in safeguarding the health of children and building a healthier nation.
By Sampson Kumah Ifeetwube Elvis
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