Academy
Report on the 3-Day professional development and intensive training course on immunohaematology
The Regional Blood Centre (RBC) Peshawar, in collaboration with the International Society of Blood Transfusion (ISBT), successfully hosted a three-day professional development and intensive training course on Immunohaematology from September 24-26, 2025. The training was supported by the ISBT Academy and brought together hematologists, transfusion specialists, postgraduate trainees, medical technologists, and quality control officers from across Pakistan to enhance knowledge and technical expertise in modern immunohaematology practices.
The workshop combined interactive lectures, discussions, and hands-on practical sessions to ensure comprehensive learning. Participants represented both public and private sector blood banks, with sessions tailored for mid-level managers, technologists, and postgraduate trainees. Key technical subjects covered included:
- Introduction to Immunology and Antigen-Antibody Reactions
- Genetics and Biochemistry of ABO and Rh Blood Group Systems
- Minor Blood Group Systems
- Antiglobulin Test
- Compatibility Testing and Cross-Matching via Gel Card Screening and Identification of Allo-Antibodies
- Troubleshooting techniques and resolving blood group discrepancies
News cutting about the workshop
To facilitate effective learning, participants were divided into small groups for supervised practical training, ensuring each attendee performed core procedures under expert guidance.
Pre- and post-course assessments were conducted to evaluate knowledge gain. A 35-question MCQ test showed scores improving from 66.56% (pre-course) to 79.78% (post-course), demonstrating significant enhancement in participants’ competencies. These results confirmed the programme’s effectiveness and also highlighted areas needing further emphasis in future training.
An evaluation questionnaire distributed at the end of the workshop revealed overwhelmingly positive feedback. Participants praised the balance between theory and practical sessions, the diversity of faculty expertise, and the interactive teaching methodology. The feedback emphasized that the training significantly improved participants’ confidence in applying immunohaematology techniques in their respective institutions.
Participants of the workshop
The workshop concluded with remarks from key dignitaries, including Dr. Qurban Mir (Director General Health), and Dr. Liaqat Ali (DIG). They commended the collaboration between ISBT and RBC Peshawar, emphasized the importance of continuous professional development, and highlighted the role of such trainings in improving transfusion safety in Pakistan. Certificates and souvenirs were presented to speakers and participants in recognition of their contributions and dedication.
This three-day workshop was widely regarded as a milestone in advancing immunohaematology expertise in Pakistan. By combining international best practices with local standards, it successfully strengthened the technical capacity of healthcare professionals, promoted safe transfusion practices, and laid the foundation for future collaborations between ISBT and regional blood services. The event not only enhanced professional development but also reinforced Pakistan’s commitment to building a stronger, safer, and more effective blood transfusion system.
