Savira Khasrawi: The Girl Who Keeps Her Dream of Becoming a Doctor Alive Through Vaccination

Takhar, Afghanistan – In the midst of the cold and rugged mountains of Takhar Province’s Warsaj district, where homes are built on uneven slopes, access to healthcare services is challenging, and life is filled with hardships and obstacles.

Amidst these challenges, only a few young individuals emerge who, despite the barriers, find a way to serve their community.

One such dedicated and hardworking individual is 23-year-old Savira Khasrawi, a volunteer for the polio vaccination campaigns.

Engaged in her work in the city of Taloqan, Savira vaccinates children every day with unwavering dedication. She firmly believes that each drop of the polio vaccine administered to a child is a step toward a safer future for society.

 

Savira’s Challenging Journey

Savira completed her education at Bibi Aisha Siddiqa High School, but due to her family’s poor financial condition, she was unable to pursue higher education.

She aspired to become a doctor and serve her people, but when this dream seemed unattainable, she decided to join the polio vaccination campaigns.

Savira says, “Every child I vaccinate brings me closer to my dream of becoming a doctor.”

Over the past year and a half, she has vaccinated between 50 and 70 children daily during each campaign. Most of her work is centered in the city of Taloqan, where polio vaccination campaigns often face challenges due to low awareness and misconceptions among some families.

 

Engaged in her work in the city of Taloqan, Savira vaccinates children every day with unwavering dedication. She firmly believes that each drop of the polio vaccine administered to a child is a step toward a safer future for society. © Polio Free Afghanistan/ 2024/ Raqiba Hamidi

 

Fighting Against Misconceptions

One memory that Savira can never forget is her encounter with a mother from a remote area.

This mother, influenced by misconceptions and rumors, refused to vaccinate her children.

However, Savira sat beside her with kindness and explained the truth in simple terms: “I patiently and calmly explained how vaccines can protect children from polio. I shared my own experiences with her and presented scientific information in a way she could understand, to dispel her doubts and concerns.”

After hearing Savira’s words, the mother was convinced and agreed to vaccinate her children.

Now, whenever Savira visits that area, the same mother welcomes her with a warm smile.

Savira has faced numerous challenges in this journey, including misconceptions and opposition to women working, but she has never wavered. With the support of her family, she has continued her efforts.

“Some families still look at me with suspicion, but this has never stopped me from doing my job,” she said.

 

With unwavering courage, Savira Khasrawi is not only striving for the health of children in Takhar but also nurturing a grand hope in her heart—a hope for a healthy, informed, and polio-free Afghanistan. © Polio Free Afghanistan/ 2024/ Raqiba Hamidi

 

Impact on the Community

Savira has managed to convince more than 15 families, who previously refused the polio vaccine, to vaccinate their children and has raised public awareness about the importance of vaccination in her community.

One such family is that of Zainab a 32-year-old woman who initially avoided vaccinating her children out of fear and anxiety.

Zainab shared: “Savira patiently and kindly explained to me how vaccines can protect children from polio. Now, I encourage other mothers to vaccinate their children as well.”

 

A Source of Change and Inspiration

Hamida Faiq, a social activist from Takhar province, said: “The participation of women like Savira in polio vaccination campaigns not only promotes public health but also demonstrates the strength and determination of Afghan women.”

Momena Ahmadi, a colleague of Savira, considers her a role model: “I’ve learned so much from her patience and kindness. Her strong determination has always been an inspiration to me.”

 

Savira’s Message

Savira hopes that one day all families in Takhar and other provinces will confidently vaccinate their children.

Her message is clear: “Vaccination is the only way to protect children from polio. Let us take this seriously for a healthy and bright future.”

With unwavering courage, Savira Khasrawi is not only striving for the health of children in Takhar but also nurturing a grand hope in her heart—a hope for a healthy, informed, and polio-free Afghanistan.

Raqiba Hamidi, Polio Free Afghanistan