Workshops and Networking Sessions

Looking for more information on the workshops offered at the ISBT Cape Town congress? You're in the right place! Here you can find detailed descriptions of available workshops, along with information on how to register and participate. From mentoring opportunities to networking sessions, we have something for everyone.

Don't miss out on this exciting opportunity to learn from leading experts and connect with like-minded professionals. Browse our workshop listings now and take the first step towards advancing your career!

Eradication due to HDFN due to anti-D in Africa

This workshop highlights the work of WIRhE and Africare in increasing awareness of the risks associated with Rh incompatibility between the mother and fetus and working towards eradication of preventable HDFN due to anti-D in LMIC. The facilitators with discuss work undertaken in three African countries (Ethiopia, Malawi and Tanzania) to determine the unmet need for anti-D Ig prophylaxis, the issues surrounding supply and quality of anti-D Ig preparations, and the availability of antenatal testing to effectively target prophylaxis. This interactive workshop is of interest to immunohematologists, clinicians and those managing blood services from countries at any stage in the development of anti-D Ig prophylaxis programmes. The aim is to share expertise, awareness of the issues and experience in getting started and developing programmes in countries where HDFN due to anti-D is either not recognised and/or not prevented effectively.

  • Date: November 21, 2023, 13:30-15:00
  • Facilitators: Ellen van der Schoot, Tadesse Gure Eticha, Priscus Mapendo

GMP/GP standards and their implication for the safety of blood and blood components

Organised by the ISBT Working Party on Quality Management, this workshop will comprise introductory presentations, interactive case studies and group work covering several aspects of Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP). These include guidance on inspection/audit, validation, change control, corrective actions and risk assessment. This workshop is suitable for all with an interest in quality systems and regulatory aspects for blood and blood components and provides a great opportunity for discussion with experts in the field.

  • Date: November 21, 2023, 8:30 – 10:00
  • Facilitators: Christian Seidl, Jens Reinhardt, Claude Tayou Tagny, Lesley Bust

Activities requiring pre-registration 

Some activities require you to register in advance because the capacity is limited or because we need to arrange catering, for example. If that's the case you will find a form to sign-up below. 

We recommend that you register early, most registrations function on a first-come-first-served basis.

ISBT eLearning - current courses in immunoheamatology and future direction

This workshop will showcase ISBT eLearning, using assessed modules on basic immunohaematology and a more advanced immunohaematology case study as examples. We will work through the case study as a group with interactive polling questions. There will be an opportunity for participants to provide input on priorities and formats for ISBT eLearning, explore the role for ISBT eLearning in the workplace, and discuss prioritisation of topics in transfusion science and medicine for future ISBT eLearning. It is suitable for attendees of all levels of experience with an interest in immunohaematology and / or eLearning and professional development. Those who pre-register will have the opportunity to complete an online eLearning course in the run-up to the congress. This will be a broad ranging discussion, and all are welcome!

  • Date: November 19, 2023, 16:00 – 17:30
  • Location: Room 1.40
  • Facilitators: Geoff Simon,Jill Storry, Lin Fung, Jenny White, Eszter Herczenik

The workshop is now closed for registration.

Plasma fractionation and stepwise access to PDMPs - ISBT / IPFA

Access to safe plasma-derived proteins and medicines is a still a major challenge in many countries, and by joining this ISBT-IPFA joint workshop you will learn how you can take steps to access these products for your patient needs. This interactive workshop follows on from the PDMP Academy session earlier in the day on ways to move ahead to ensure quality of plasma, how to choose a stepwise approach towards access to PDMPS and examples of what a producer (fractionator) may require from the plasma provider.  It is suitable for those at any stage in the journey to producing PDMPs from domestic plasma. There will be three break-out groups, where you will have a chance to actively participate in discussions, ask questions, and learn from others in smaller groups on these topics led by experienced moderators from ISBT, IPFA and NBI. You can pre-register via the ISBT website to express preference for one of the three groups:

  • QMS and basic quality/safety requirements for plasma
  • Stepwise access to safe plasma proteins - how to get started small-scale and progress
  • Challenges and recommendations in preparing for contract plasma fractionation

The overarching goal of the workshop is to identify the key questions and approaches and to outline the ways forward towards establishing Contract Plasma Fractionation in different global regions.  Your participation is encouraged to assure a successful outcome.

  • Date: November 20, 2023, 15:30 – 17:30
  • Facilitators: Leni von Bonsdorff, Glynis Bowie, Jay Epstein, Jean Claude Faber, Albert Farrugia, Jeh-Han Omarjee, Robert Perry, Françoise Rossi

 

ISBT Young Professionals Breakfast

At the ISBT Young Professionals Breakfast, participants will engage in lively discussions with experts over a meal. This informal gathering offers a unique opportunity to connect with fellow young professionals and field experts, all while seated at themed tables matching your interests. Please note that registration is required for the breakfast session.

  • Date: November 20, 2023, 7:00- 8:00 
  • Location: Room 1.40
  • Eligibility: You must have a valid registration for the congress, and be under the age of 41. 
The registration for the breakfast is closed now.