News

In a step that reflects the national direction toward institutional integration and the strengthening of efforts to combat endemic diseases, Theodor Bilharz Research Institute (TBRI), under the patronage of Prof. Ahmed Abdel Aziz, Director and Chairman of the Institute, held an advanced training course entitled: "Enhancing Diagnostic Capabilities for Schistosomiasis."
The course was organized by the WHO Collaborating Centre at TBRI, headed by Dr. Hagar Fathy Abdel Maqsoud, in coordination with the General Directorate of Tropical Diseases at the Ministry of Health. This initiative falls within the framework of fruitful cooperation between the Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research and the Ministry of Health and Population, and reaffirms the institute’s leading role in public health and national programs to combat tropical diseases.
The training course aimed to enhance the competencies of specialized healthcare professionals—including physicians and chemists—in the management of schistosomiasis by providing hands-on training in the latest diagnostic tools and parasite detection techniques. It also introduced participants to current global strategies for disease control and internationally recommended treatment protocols.
The training program included a series of scientific lectures, hands-on workshops, and a field tour of the Institute’s laboratories and departments. Participants received practical training on the use of modern equipment and technologies for diagnosing schistosome parasites and implementing advanced control methods. This comprehensive approach enriched both the theoretical and practical knowledge of the trainees, significantly enhancing their ability to address this endemic disease.
The course was delivered by a distinguished group of expert researchers from various departments of the institute, adding substantial scientific value and multidisciplinary depth to the program. The sessions witnessed active engagement from participants, with productive scientific discussions and intensive practical applications that deepened understanding and reinforced learning on both academic and technical levels.
In a statement, Prof. Ahmed Abdel Aziz emphasized that organizing such advanced training courses is part of the national and scientific responsibility of  Theodor Bilharz Research Institute—an esteemed research institution specializing in liver and parasitic diseases. He highlighted the Institute’s commitment to supporting public health programs in collaboration with key stakeholders, particularly the Ministry of Health and the World Health Organization, to strengthen the country’s capacity to address endemic tropical diseases.
This course is part of TBRI’s ongoing efforts to strengthen its collaboration with the World Health Organization and support the Ministry of Health’s strategy for eliminating neglected tropical diseases, especially schistosomiasis. The course also serves as a successful model of institutional integration in the health sector and underscores the importance of continuous professional training for medical personnel. It aligns with a national vision aimed at enhancing the healthcare system and achieving the Sustainable Development Goals by building professional capacities capable of addressing health challenges effectively.