Few books manage to capture the essence of public health struggles with the depth, emotion, and insight that Dr. Syed Saifur Rehman’s work does. As someone who has worked, though intermittently in Balochistan and Sindh, alongside him during some of the most challenging times in Pakistan’s fight against polio, reading this book was not just an academic exercise for me—it was a journey back in time, reliving the battles we fought, the partnerships we forged, and the sacrifices endured in the line of duty.
A Personal Connection with Dr. Saif: My association with Dr. Saif goes beyond the pages of his compelling book—it is rooted in our shared commitment to battling polio in Pakistan. During my tenure leading UNICEF’s media engagement against polio, I had the privilege of working intermittently with Dr. Saif, a man of exceptional resolve and strategic vision. Our interactions spanned from Quetta to Karachi, where he spearheaded the Emergency Operation Centre (EOC) and held administrative positions in both provinces. I witnessed first-hand his ability to navigate the treacherous waters of misinformation, political resistance, and on-the-ground threats to ensure that polio campaigns reached the most vulnerable.
One particularly memorable instance was our collaborative session with the revered journalist Rahim Ullah Yusufzai at EOC Quetta. Rahim Ullah, with his unwavering commitment to truth, helped us combat the negativity surrounding polio vaccinations. It was in these high-stakes discussions that Dr. Saif’s soft-spoken yet resolute nature shone brightest—he was always the thoughtful, do-it kind of leader who understood that public health crises required a blend of science, administration, and sheer willpower.
The Book’s Core Message: Transforming Crisis into Opportunity: Dr. Saif’s book is not merely a recollection of events; it is a masterclass in public health administration. As an MBBS doctor who transitioned into an acclaimed civil servant (decorated with Tamgha Imtiaz, Pakistan’s prestigious civilian award), Dr. Saif uses his narrative to illustrate how administrative officers can turn any public health emergency into an opportunity for humanity.
His detailed accounts of managing polio campaigns highlight the intersections of governance, media, and grassroots mobilization. He urges fellow administrators to see beyond their official mandates and recognize their roles as guardians of public welfare. The book is a testament to his belief that bureaucracy, when driven by passion, can become an instrument of profound societal change.
One of the book’s most striking anecdotes is Dr. Saif’s confrontation with the grim reality of polio workers facing life-threatening dangers. He recounts an incident where, despite looming threats, he personally visited high-risk areas to assure field teams of their safety and significance. His words, “A child’s future is worth every risk we take today,” encapsulate his unwavering commitment.
Another powerful moment is his recounting of the days following an attack on a vaccination team. Instead of succumbing to despair, Dr. Saif intensified efforts, rallying media and community leaders to reinforce the campaign’s legitimacy. His strategic collaboration with every stakeholder, no matter how big or small, proved instrumental in shifting public perception.
Yet another particularly gripping passage describes a harrowing encounter in Balochistan, where a team narrowly escaped an attack—an incident that underscores the very real dangers faced by those fighting polio on the frontlines.
Quoting from the book:
“Each time a health worker set out with a vial of vaccine, they carried not just hope but a target on their back. Their resilience was the true backbone of this mission.”
This resonates deeply with me. I remember the constant fear yet unwavering determination that drove our efforts at UNICEF. The media campaigns we spearheaded were not just about information dissemination but also about changing mindsets and countering misinformation that fuelled resistance to vaccination efforts.
Beyond policy discussions and operational challenges, the book also offers deeply personal reflections. Dr. Saif does not shy away from sharing his own vulnerabilities—the sleepless nights, the burden of responsibility, and the moments of self-doubt. In one chapter, he recalls a candid conversation we had after a particularly frustrating day of navigating bureaucratic hurdles.
“In moments of exhaustion, I confided in my colleagues, who reminded me why we started this fight in the first place. It was never just about numbers—it was about children, about futures, about a promise we had made to our country.”
Reading this passage was both humbling and reaffirming. It took me back to the weight of those conversations, the shared sense of duty, and the unrelenting hope that kept us going.
An Honest and Timely Narrative: One of the book’s greatest strengths is its honesty. It does not sugar-coat the challenges nor glorify the victories. It acknowledges missteps and the lessons learned, making it an invaluable resource for policymakers, public health professionals, and anyone invested in global health security.
Dr. Saif also paid tribute to fallen heroes—colleagues and health workers who paid the ultimate price in this battle. The inclusion of their stories is a powerful reminder of what is at stake and why the fight against polio (and other preventable diseases) must never wane.
Academic and Administrative Insights: Dr. Saif’s journey from medicine to public service is itself an inspiration. The book delves into his transition, detailing how his medical background equipped him with an analytical mindset while his administrative acumen allowed him to implement large-scale public health interventions. His experiences serve as a guidebook for civil servants worldwide, demonstrating that governance is not just about policy—it’s about people.
One of his core messages to administrators is the need for adaptive leadership. He emphasizes, “Rigid policies do not serve dynamic crises. We must be fluid, responsive, and empathetic.” This philosophy, reflected throughout the book, is a valuable lesson for any public official dealing with emergencies.
Why This Book Matters Dr. Saif’s book is more than a memoir; it is a blueprint for ethical, effective governance. It is a must-read for policymakers, journalists, healthcare professionals, and anyone invested in public welfare. His ability to weave personal experiences with administrative insights makes this book not only informative but deeply moving. For those of us who have worked alongside him, this book is a reaffirmation of his dedication. For those meeting him through these pages, it is an introduction to a leader whose impact extends far beyond the realms of medicine and administration—into the hearts of those he has served.
Dr. Saif’s story is a reminder that in the face of adversity, resilience and purpose can create lasting change. And as I turn the last page, I find myself reflecting on our conversations in Quetta, Karachi, and beyond—each one a testament to the indomitable spirit that drives true service to humanity.
