Led by Estelle Bugni, an expert in quality management systems and aptitude testing, the 12-hour course was structured into four three-hour modules delivered via video conferencing (July 7 and 9 and then September 1 and 3, 2026).
It was attended by seven Mérieux Foundation employees and eight professionals from five laboratories in the Foundation’s network:
- Rodolphe Mérieux Laboratory in Lebanon (2 participants)
- Rodolphe Mérieux Laboratory in Cambodia (1 participant)
- Rodolphe Mérieux Laboratory in Goma (1 participant)
- Charles Mérieux Center for Infectious Disease in Mali (2 participants)
- Charles Mérieux Center for Infectious Disease in Madagascar (2 participants)
These quality managers, microbiologists, EQA coordinators and technical experts developed their understanding of the standard’s requirements: program planning, risk management, sample preparation and transport, statistical analysis based on ISO 13528, and continuous improvement.
Between the July and September modules, the participants conducted three field exercises to apply their knowledge:
- Risk mapping and management: analysis of critical steps (sample uniformity, stability, storage and transport) and ensuring impartiality.
- Data processing and technical reporting: case study (creatinine dosage), forming peer groups, detecting abnormal values and drawing on performance indicators in a report for the laboratory.
- Complete design of an EQA project: preparing plans for programs with applications in biochemistry (creatinine), microbiology (urine culture), and tuberculosis (mycobacterial culture, with an emphasis on biosafety).
By encouraging participants to share their experiences and harmonize methods across biochemistry, microbiology, and tuberculosis, the session reinforced collaboration within the network. The knowledge acquired will support the structuring of future national and regional EQA programs, improving the quality of patient care.
About the Quality Initiative
The Mérieux Foundation’s Quality Initiative helps partner laboratories (Rodolphe Mérieux Laboratories and Charles Mérieux Centers for Infectious Disease) to strengthen their quality management systems. It uses specialist training, mentoring, the development of operational tools, and the sharing of peer expertise to promote a long-term culture of continuous improvement.
