In a bid to improve response to disease outbreaks and public health interventions, the University of Ghana School of Public Health, in collaboration with the Norwegian Institute of Public Health, has launched a specialized training program for Medical Laboratory Scientists.
This initiative focuses on the Applied Molecular Epidemiology of Infectious Diseases and aims to equip participants with advanced molecular diagnostic techniques, strengthening both health security and disease surveillance capabilities.
Empowering Medical Laboratory Scientists
Molecular epidemiology is integral to modern disease surveillance as it enables the rapid detection, tracking, and characterization of infectious disease outbreaks.
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The training initiative is designed to build the capacity of Medical Laboratory Scientists by providing hands-on experience in genetic pathogen characterization and outbreak detection.
Enhancing Diagnostic Accuracy and Data-Driven Decision-Making
The two-week intensive course offers practical experience with molecular diagnostic techniques, fostering diagnostic accuracy and empowering participants to make informed, data-driven decisions.
By strengthening laboratory networks and enhancing the skills of Medical Laboratory Scientists, the program contributes to tackling both emerging and re-emerging infectious diseases.
Supporting Global Health Security
Dr. Gloria Amegatcher, Public Relations Officer of the Ghana Association of Medical Laboratory Scientists and one of the facilitators of the course, emphasized the importance of this capacity-building initiative.
“Empowering Medical Laboratory Scientists with molecular diagnostic skills is crucial for enhancing disease surveillance, outbreak response, and public health interventions, ultimately contributing to global health security,” she said.
A Step towards Strengthening Health Systems
This collaboration between the University of Ghana School of Public Health and the Norwegian Institute of Public Health reflects a shared commitment to strengthening health systems and improving disease surveillance. As Dr. Amegatcher noted, “Investing in the training and development of Medical Laboratory Scientists is key to ensuring more effective responses to infectious disease outbreaks, thus promoting global health security.”
Ghana l Atinkaonline.com