Holistic, collaborative and innovative approach in teaching and assessing immunisation concepts for undergraduate medical students

Background: Immunization is one of the more important medical interventions. Over the course of history, it has helped keep millions of us protected against some of the most devastating and deadly diseases ever to befall mankind. Thus, immunisation is a critical component in medical training, forming an essential part of the curricula. With the introduction of the Competency-Based Medical Education (CBME) curriculum by the National Medical Commission (NMC), there is an increasing emphasis on skill acquisition, communication, clinical reasoning, and real-world application. For developing a comprehensive understanding of vaccination principles, national immunisation programs, cold chain management, and safe vaccine administration we need an integrated approach.

This article aims to map immunization-related competencies across the three departments of Microbiology, Community medicine and Paediatrics and implement an integrated CBME teaching-learning model and also assess improvements in student knowledge, skills, and communication with few suggestions for innovative teaching ,learning and assessment.

Traditional methods such as lectures, tutorials, and small-group discussions remain essential for conceptual clarity. However, innovative strategies significantly enhance competency achievement. Simulation-based training improves procedural skills such as vaccine administration and AEFI management. Digital tools increase learner motivation and retention of immunisation schedules. Community-based teaching through PHC visits, exposure to cold-chain points, and participation in National Immunisation Day improve programmatic understanding. Role-play and standardised patient encounters enhance communication and counselling competencies. A blended and integrated approach incorporating traditional, skill-based, and innovative methods is most effective for teaching immunisation concepts. Aligning TLMs with NMC competencies ensures holistic learning, promotes active participation, builds confidence, and prepares future physicians to deliver safe and effective immunisation services which is one of component of sustainable development goal ,reaching the global health care