Director’s Message
The SAARC Tuberculosis and HIV/AIDS Centre (STAC) serves as a specialized regional institution under the SAARC framework, established following the decision of the Fifth Summit of the Heads of the States or Government of the Member Countries of SAARC held in Male in November 1990. Initially set up as the SAARC Tuberculosis Centre in 1992 and since 1994, the Centre expanded its mandate to address both tuberculosis (TB) and HIV/AIDS, reflecting the evolving public health priorities of the region.
Guided by its vision to support SAARC Member States in achieving a region free from TB and HIV/AIDS, STAC continues to play a coordinating and facilitative role among National Tuberculosis Control Programmes (NTPs) and National HIV/AIDS Control Programmes (NACPs). Over the years, the Centre has led the development and implementation of key regional strategies, including those on TB elimination, HIV/AIDS, Advocacy, Communication and Social Mobilization (ACSM) and migration heath (2018-2023). In light of emerging challenges and global commitments, it is now imperative to review and update these strategies to align with current evidence and accelerate progress toward national, regional and global targets.
The Centre’s work spans a broad spectrum of priority areas, including policy and strategic guidance, capacity building of human resources, research and surveys, regional advocacy and strengthen collaboration with partners. The Centre also facilitates knowledge exchange by disseminating technical resources, best practices and programmatic experiences across Member States. All activities are guided by recommendations from the Governing Body and approved by Programming Committees of SAARC.
A significant milestone is the forthcoming operationalization of the SAARC Supra-national Reference Laboratory for TB and HIV/AIDS, supported through voluntary contributions from the Governments of Bangladesh, India and Nepal. This laboratory is envisioned to enhance regional capacity through advanced research, workforce development, quality assurance of laboratory services and establishment of a repository for the future scientific endeavors.
I extend my sincere appreciation to the National Programme Managers, Governing Board Members, Ministries of Health and Foreign/External Affairs of Member States, the SAARC Secretariat, our collaborating partners and the dedicated STAC team for their continued support. Such collective commitment remains vital to advancing our shared regional goals.
Finally, I would be grateful for your valuable suggestions, feedback and guidance that will be invaluable in strengthening our efforts and achieving sustainable impact.
Dr.Chuman Lal Das
Director