SCOPE Research Closing Event Strengthens Malaria Control Collaboration in North Sumatra

The SCOPE Research Closing Event, conducted in collaboration with the North Sumatra Provincial Health Office on 28 January 2025, was successfully held and marked an important step in strengthening collaboration between academia and local government in advancing malaria control efforts across North Sumatra Province.

The SCOPE Research represents a strategic initiative to enhance planning and implementation of malaria control programs in the region. During the coordination meeting, the North Sumatra Provincial Health Office expressed strong support for the research and discussed opportunities to further develop the SCOPE framework so that it can be integrated into regional health programs.

During the meeting, the North Sumatra Provincial Health Office invited Prof. Ayodhia to engage in more in-depth follow-up discussions regarding the required components and resource needs, with the aim of enabling the SCOPE Research to be considered for inclusion in future budget planning. A follow-up meeting with the Governor is also planned to explore the SCOPE Research in greater detail and at a broader policy level.

The North Sumatra Provincial Health Office also supports the SCOPE Research should it be designated as a provincial-level program. Three districts have been identified as the main target areas for implementation, Kabupaten Asahan, Kabupaten Batu Bara Regency, and Kabupaten Labuhanbatu Utara, which have been designated as priority areas. Furthermore, the North Sumatra Provincial Health Office plans to organize a webinar on malaria case management and treatment to be attended by all doctors and healthcare workers across North Sumatra Province.

This event marks an important milestone, with the SCOPE Research expected to provide a solid evidence base for policy development and program implementation, supporting ongoing malaria control and elimination efforts in North Sumatra Province.