First Training Center for Laboratory Diagnostics Opens in Astana

The project is a collaboration with Roche Diagnostics, a global leader in pharmaceuticals and diagnostics, and a key partner in the development of Kazakhstan's pharmaceutical industry and healthcare system, supported by the Ministry of Healthcare of the Republic of Kazakhstan and "SK-Pharmacy" LLP. The primary goal of the training center is to enhance the skills of local specialists.

The project is a collaboration with Roche Diagnostics, a global leader in pharmaceuticals and diagnostics, and a key partner in the development of Kazakhstan’s pharmaceutical industry and healthcare system, supported by the Ministry of Healthcare of the Republic of Kazakhstan and “SK-Pharmacy” LLP. The primary goal of the training center is to enhance the skills of local specialists.

The opening ceremony was attended by Akmaral Alnazarova, the Minister of Healthcare of the Republic of Kazakhstan, Dr.Massimo Pignatelli, NU Vice President and Dean of the School of Medicine, Hasan Demirci Head of Roche Diagnostics for Central Asia and the Caucasus, Dr. Yuriy Pya, the Chairman of the Board of the “University Medical Center” Corporate Fund (UMC), Kanybek Ashirov, Executive Director and Member of the Executive Board of the UMC, Yerkhat Iskaliyev, Chairman of the Board of “SK-Pharmacy” LLP, as well as representatives from various departmental structures and medical organizations.

The training center, demonstrating the principles and specifics of large diagnostic laboratories in real-world conditions, is equipped with laboratory diagnostic analyzers and the necessary reagent kits for sample analysis. The NU School of Medicine together with Roche Diagnostics will conduct hands-on training for medical and scientific personnel in modern diagnostic methods using automated high-technology equipment. For instance, the equipment provided by Roche allows for almost fully automated PCR analysis under large sample load conditions, minimizing routine manual work.

“By opening an innovative training center, we are introducing advanced technologies for processing large volumes of laboratory data, allowing us to diagnose diseases even more accurately. Our specialists can now develop and implement advanced diagnostic methodologies aimed at improving the health of our population,” – emphasized Minister Akmaral Alnazarova.

Massimo Pignatelli, Vice President of NU and Dean of the School of Medicine, noted: “The launch of the training center reflects NU’s commitment to providing quality medical education and training world-class specialists. We have created a platform where theoretical knowledge meets advanced practice, offering our students and professionals a unique opportunity to develop and hone skills necessary for tackling the most complex laboratory challenges. This will provide us with the resources for conducting extensive research and developing new treatment methods, making a significant contribution to the global medical community.”

Hasan Demirci, Head of Roche Diagnostics for Central Asia and the Caucasus, highlighted the importance of prevention in any healthcare system, including timely examination and disease detection. “Roche analyzers are used by private Kazakhstani laboratories to conduct tests and prepare analyses. I am very proud of our partnership with NU and UMC, as I am confident that the opening of this training center will foster the development of Kazakhstan’s healthcare system and enhance the skills of local specialists by expanding access to medical innovations,” he added.

The launch of the training center at NU will boost the development of scientific and medical research in Kazakhstan and positively impact the healthcare system as a whole, as approximately 70% of all clinical decisions are based on laboratory test results. Additionally, the advancement of diagnostic capabilities will strengthen efforts to create domestic medical-pharmaceutical clusters in the country.

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