Deadline: 04-Jun-2026
United Nations International Children’s Emergency Fund is seeking grant applications to strengthen child immunization systems in Karnali Province, Nepal through digital tools, GIS-based tracking, and community engagement strategies. The initiative aims to identify and reduce the number of zero-dose and under-immunized children, with an indicative budget of 26,500,000.
The project focuses on improving vaccination coverage, strengthening local health systems, and supporting data-driven interventions that address barriers affecting underserved children.
Overview of the UNICEF Immunization Initiative
The programme is designed to strengthen immunization systems and improve access to vaccines for children who have never received vaccines or who have not completed recommended immunization schedules.
The initiative targets persistent gaps in vaccination coverage despite strong national immunization performance.
The programme supports:
- Child health systems
- Routine immunization strengthening
- Digital transformation
- GIS-based tracking
- Community participation
- Data-driven interventions
- Social and behavioral change
Project Location
- Karnali Province
- Nepal
Programme Objectives
The initiative aims to:
- Improve identification of unvaccinated children
- Increase routine immunization coverage
- Strengthen digital tracking systems
- Reduce immunization equity gaps
- Improve data quality and accuracy
- Support community engagement
- Increase vaccine acceptance and uptake
Key Focus Areas
1. Identification of Zero-Dose and Under-Immunized Children
The programme seeks to improve systems that identify children who remain outside routine immunization services.
Definitions:
Zero-dose children
Children who have not received any routine vaccine doses.
Under-immunized children
Children who have started vaccination schedules but have not completed them.
Activities may include:
- Household identification
- Community mapping
- Health record verification
- Outreach activities
2. Digital Tools and GIS-Based Tracking Systems
Technology solutions are expected to strengthen monitoring and planning.
Examples include:
- Digital child records
- GIS mapping systems
- Geographic tracking tools
- Population databases
- Data dashboards
3. Community Engagement and Social Mobilization
The programme promotes community participation to improve vaccine awareness and acceptance.
Examples:
- Community ambassadors
- Religious leader engagement
- Public awareness activities
- Social and behavior change communication
4. Data Quality and Equity Improvements
Projects should improve:
- Data accuracy
- Coverage monitoring
- Identification of underserved communities
- Evidence-based planning
Funding Information
Indicative Budget
- 26,500,000
Funding supports implementation activities focused on child immunization and digital system strengthening.
Expected Results
The initiative has several targeted outcomes.
Child Identification and Referral Targets
- Identify at least 80% of zero-dose and under-immunized children
- Refer identified children for vaccination services
Vaccination Targets
- Ensure 100% of referred children receive complete vaccination within six months
Digital System Outcomes
- Develop digital records for unvaccinated populations
- Create geo-located datasets for planning and intervention activities
Capacity Building Outcomes
District and municipal stakeholders should be able to:
- Independently use digital tools
- Operate GIS systems
- Apply learned skills within three months of training
Why This Initiative Matters
Children may remain unvaccinated because of:
- Geographic barriers
- Limited healthcare access
- Social challenges
- Economic factors
- Service delivery gaps
The programme helps:
- Improve child health outcomes
- Increase vaccine access
- Reduce inequities
- Strengthen health systems
- Improve community trust
- Support evidence-based decision making
How the Programme Works
Step 1: Identify Target Communities
Determine areas with:
- Low vaccination coverage
- High numbers of zero-dose children
- Access barriers
Step 2: Implement Digital Tracking Systems
Develop systems for:
- Child registration
- Geographic mapping
- Monitoring immunization status
Step 3: Engage Communities
Work with:
- Religious leaders
- Community ambassadors
- Health workers
- Local stakeholders
Step 4: Refer Children for Immunization Services
Create referral mechanisms to connect children with vaccination services.
Step 5: Monitor Progress and Outcomes
Track:
- Vaccination completion rates
- Data quality
- Geographic coverage
- Community engagement outcomes
Common Mistakes to Avoid
1. Weak Community Participation Plans
Projects should clearly demonstrate community engagement approaches.
2. Limited Data Strategies
Applications should explain how data will be collected and used.
3. Missing Sustainability Plans
Demonstrate long-term use of digital systems.
4. Unclear Referral Processes
Clearly explain how identified children will reach vaccination services.
5. Weak Measurement Indicators
Include measurable outcomes and performance indicators.
Tips for a Strong Application
- Demonstrate understanding of local barriers
- Include practical digital solutions
- Explain community engagement strategies
- Use measurable indicators
- Present realistic implementation timelines
- Highlight sustainability plans
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What is the purpose of this initiative?
The programme aims to identify and reduce the number of unvaccinated and under-immunized children through digital systems and community engagement.
2. Where will the project be implemented?
The initiative will be implemented in Karnali Province.
3. What is a zero-dose child?
A zero-dose child is a child who has not received any routine vaccine doses.
4. What is the indicative budget?
The initiative has an indicative budget of 26,500,000.
5. What technologies are emphasized?
The programme supports digital tools and GIS-based tracking systems.
6. What vaccination target has been set?
The programme aims for 100% vaccination completion of referred children within six months.
7. Why are community leaders involved?
Community ambassadors and religious leaders help improve awareness and increase vaccination uptake.
Conclusion
This UNICEF initiative seeks to strengthen child immunization systems in Karnali Province by combining technology, community engagement, and data-driven planning. By identifying underserved children and improving vaccine access, the programme supports stronger health systems and more equitable health outcomes.
For more information, visit UN Partner Portal.