SAFE Sindh: Training of Master Trainers – Protecting Lives from Rabies

The SAFE Sindh Rabies Program, a collaborative initiative of the Government of Sindh and Indus Hospital & Health Network (IHHN ), has officially commenced its Training of Master Trainers at the Rabies Prevention and Training Center, Indus University Hospital Karachi. The program aims to strengthen rabies prevention and response across the province through a comprehensive approach that includes Surveillance, Awareness, Free Immunoprophylaxis, and Emergency Response (SAFE).

The first day of the five-day training program set a strong foundation for developing highly competent Master Trainers. The session began with a welcome note, followed by opening remarks from Dr. Abdul Bari Khan , President IHHN, highlighting the urgent need for a coordinated, system-based approach to eliminate rabies, a preventable yet fatal disease. This was followed by a detailed session by Dr Naseem Salahuddin , who explained the current rabies situation in Pakistan, providing participants with critical epidemiological insights. Participants from various districts were introduced, reflecting the program’s province-wide reach and collaborative approach. Among the trainers leading the sessions is Mr. Aftab Gohar, a Master Trainer, who brings extensive experience in rabies prevention and clinical training.

A pre-training assessment evaluated participants’ baseline knowledge, ensuring a structured and measurable learning journey throughout the program. Technical sessions were followed by in-depth sessions on Rabies Post-Exposure Prophylaxis (PEP), led by clinical experts, covering standardized treatment protocols and timely interventions that can save lives.

The SAFE framework guides the training, reflecting the program’s comprehensive strategy to prevent and control rabies. Over the course of five days, more than 200 participants will be trained. On the first day, 15 participants attended in person at Indus University Hospital Karachi, while 11 participants joined virtually via Zoom from Dr. Sikandar Ali Mandhro Civil Hospital, Badin.

Participants engaged in interactive discussions on theoretical concepts, complex case studies, and frequently asked questions, enabling them to apply their knowledge to real-life clinical scenarios and strengthen decision-making skills. These Master Trainers, including Mr. Aftab Gohar, will further cascade their expertise to healthcare workers across more than 100 facilities, significantly enhancing Sindh’s capacity to manage and prevent rabies cases effectively.

The five-day training will continue with hands-on clinical sessions, diagnostics, surveillance systems, infection control, and quality assurance protocols, ensuring participants are fully equipped to lead rabies prevention efforts in their districts. The SAFE Sindh initiative represents a major step towards strengthening public health systems, improving access to life-saving treatment, and reducing preventable deaths from rabies across the province