Academy
Training Workshop on Immunohaematology
The Islamabad Medical & Dental College (IMDC), a leading academic institution of the country with a legacy spanning two decades, organized a comprehensive Training Workshop on Immuno-Haematology in Blood Banking to strengthen capacity in safe transfusion practices. The workshop was conducted through the Blood Donor Society and was supported and endorsed by the International Society of Blood Transfusion (ISBT) under its Academy Grant, highlighting its international academic recognition. A total of 37 participants from various healthcare institutions attended the workshop.
The workshop was graced by Ibrar Rafique, Secretary/Registrar, Ministry of National Health Services, as the Guest of Honor, while Muhammad Fayyaz , Chairman MLT, AHPC, attended as the Chief Guest.
In Pakistan, red cell antibody detection and identification procedures adhering to internationally accepted standards are available in only a limited number of blood centers, predominantly within the private sector. As these procedures are fundamental to ensuring the availability of safe blood, the workshop addressed a critical gap in transfusion services. Routine antibody screening plays a vital role in preventing transfusion reactions and associated complications. The workshop also discussed artificial intelligence in transfusion medicine and machine learning.
In Pakistan, red cell antibody detection and identification procedures adhering to internationally accepted standards are available in only a limited number of blood centers, predominantly within the private sector. As these procedures are fundamental to ensuring the availability of safe blood, the workshop addressed a critical gap in transfusion services. Routine antibody screening plays a vital role in preventing transfusion reactions and associated complications. The workshop also discussed artificial intelligence in transfusion medicine and machine learning.
Upon completion of the course, participants achieved key competencies, including understanding the correct use of immunohaematology techniques in blood banks, performing antibody screening and identification, managing mismatched transfusion cases, applying national quality control guidelines, and ensuring safe and judicious use of blood and blood components.
On this occasion, the CEO of Islamabad Medical & Dental College, Yasir Khan Niazi, stated in his special message that IMDC’s vision is not merely to provide medical education, but to strengthen Pakistan’s healthcare system in line with international standards. He said, “Our priority is to produce professionals who meet not only national but also global standards. Safe blood transfusion is a fundamental right of every patient, and IMDC will continue to promote modern technology, research, and international collaboration to achieve this goal. We are grateful to the ISBT for supporting this training activity”.
(R) Muhammad Aslam, Vice Chancellor stated that IMDC will continue to play a leading role in strengthening the field of allied health sciences through such training programs, international partnerships, and advanced research in the future. He also highly appreciated Sindh Medical Stores and ISBT for their support in this activity.
The curriculum of the workshop combined theoretical lectures and hands-on practical sessions, supplemented by interactive discussions and personalized guidance to ensure a comprehensive learning experience.
The workshop reaffirmed IMDC’s commitment to advancing transfusion safety and enhancing professional competency in allied health sciences across Pakistan.
