Advancement of mycology and medical education through interdepartmental and international academic collaboration: the role of professor S. Hostalidi and the department of microbiology,virology
From May 4 to May 13, 2026, the department of microbiology, virology of the “S.D.Asfendiyarov Kazakh National Medical University” hosted professor Sofia Hostalidi, doctor of medical sciences, as part of the visiting professor program. She is a highly qualified expert in clinical mycology and the diagnosis of invasive fungal infections.
During the visit, a total of 42 academic hours of integrated educational, scientific, and clinical activities were conducted, including lectures, practical classes, a master class, a round table discussion, consultations for patients at clinical sites, and meetings dedicated to the development of joint research initiatives.
One of the key events was the master class titled “Current trends in mycology and diagnostic criteria for invasive fungal infections”, held on may 6 at the Hall of Fame named T. Sharmanov. The event aimed to enhance the professional competencies of faculty members and laboratory specialists, aligning with UN SDG 4: Quality Education.
On May 8, professor S.Hostalidi met with physicians from the maxillofacial surgery department of city clinical hospital No. 5, as well as faculty members from the departments of surgical dentistry and otorhinolaryngology at KazNMU. The discussion focused on modern algorithms for diagnosing invasive fungal infections and the prospects for joint clinical publications, directly contributing to SDG 3, aimed at strengthening healthcare systems and advancing medical technologies.
On May 12, a round table was held with the participation of faculty members, residents, and master’s students from clinical departments. The session addressed interdisciplinary collaboration, contemporary approaches to the management of fungal infections, and the implementation of international clinical guidelines. This event significantly contributed to academic exchange and scientific cooperation in line with SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals.
A major outcome of the visit was the preparation of a proposal for the first comprehensive multicenter study of invasive fungal infections in the Republic of Kazakhstan for the period 2026–2028. The project includes the establishment of a national registry of invasive fungal infections and a unified electronic database aimed at analyzing risk factors, pathogen distribution, antifungal resistance patterns, and improving diagnostic and therapeutic approaches. This initiative corresponds to SDG 3 and SDG 9.
In addition, discussions were held regarding the modernization of educational programs, updating of teaching and methodological materials, and the implementation of modern clinically oriented teaching approaches.
The visit of professor Sofia Hostalidi represented an important milestone in strengthening international academic cooperation, advancing scientific integration, and improving the quality of educational and research activities at the department of microbiology, virology of KazNMU named after S.D. Asfendiyarov.
