Event highlights
A total of 112 health professionals, with a particular focus on colleagues working in earthquake-affected provinces, took part in a 3-day online introductory training on next generation sequencing (NGS), bioinformatics, molecular epidemiology and genomic surveillance, held from 12–14 August 2026. The training explored how genomic information can help health professionals detect and track infectious diseases, understand how pathogens change and spread, and support timely public health action.
The training was organized within the framework of the European Union-funded project “Strengthening national capacities against COVID-19 and other public health emergencies”, implemented by the General Directorate of Public Health of the Ministry of Health of Türkiye with the technical support of the WHO Country Office in Türkiye. The activity was delivered in collaboration with the Department of Microbiology Reference Laboratories and Biological Products of the General Directorate of Public Health.
From genomic data to public health action
Genomic sequencing may sound like a highly specialized laboratory technique, but its applications can have a direct impact on public health. By examining the genetic characteristics of viruses and other microorganisms, scientists and public health professionals can track how pathogens circulate and change over time, identify emerging variants and better understand links between cases and outbreaks.
When combined with epidemiological and clinical information, genomic data can provide important evidence for public health decision-making. Genomic surveillance can therefore contribute to the early detection of emerging threats and support preparedness for and response to outbreaks, including threats with pandemic potential.
This was the starting point for the 3-day training, which introduced participants to the journey from sequencing technologies and platforms to the interpretation and public health use of genomic data. Rather than focusing on advanced programming or complex computational analysis, the programme emphasized fundamental concepts and practical understanding.
On 12 August, Özge Beğli, National Professional Officer, WHO Country Office in Türkiye, opened the training with sessions on the development of DNA sequencing technologies and the fundamentals of NGS. Participants also explored different sequencing platforms and how they generate sequence data.
“Genomic sequencing is not only a laboratory technology; it is an important tool for understanding and tracking infectious diseases. By building a common understanding of how sequencing data are generated, analysed and interpreted, we can help health professionals make better use of genomic information in public health practice. This training is an important first step in bringing these concepts closer to the professionals who will use them in their work,” she said.
On 13 August, Dr Gültekin Ünal, National Professional Officer, WHO Country Office in Türkiye, led the second day of the programme, which moved from sequencing technologies to how NGS data can be transformed into meaningful biological information. Participants were introduced to the basics of bioinformatics and molecular epidemiology, including approaches to interpreting genetic data.
On 14 August, Biran Musul, National Professional Officer, WHO Country Office in Türkiye, led the final day, focusing on metadata, genomic surveillance and the role of sequencing in public health. Participants explored the basic principles of genomic surveillance and how genomic sequencing can contribute to monitoring important pathogens.
Across the 3 days, concise presentations were complemented by visual workflows, online demonstrations, examples from scientific literature and case-based discussions. This approach helped participants connect the technical steps involved in sequencing and data analysis with their practical relevance to public health.
Supporting capacity where it matters most
The training was designed primarily for health professionals working in microbiology in earthquake-affected provinces, while also bringing together professionals from across Türkiye. By providing a common introduction to NGS, bioinformatics and genomic surveillance, the activity aimed to support the development of knowledge and skills that can be applied in routine laboratory and public health practice.
The opening remarks were delivered by Edibe Bozkurt, Head of the Tuberculosis Department at the General Directorate of Public Health, Ministry of Health of Türkiye, highlighting the importance of laboratory and public health capacities in responding to current and emerging infectious disease threats.
The training activity contributes to the EU-funded project’s broader efforts to enhance national capacity for the detection and surveillance of, and response to, public health emergencies. By developing knowledge and skills in genomic sequencing, bioinformatics and molecular epidemiology, the training supports the foundations needed for sustainable genomic surveillance in Türkiye.
Ultimately, these capacities are not only about developing technical expertise in laboratories. They are about ensuring that health professionals have the knowledge and tools to recognize infectious disease threats earlier, understand how they evolve and spread, and contribute to timely, evidence-informed public health action.