image: Group photo at the atrium of the BGI Center
Credit: BGI Genomics
BGI Genomics has successfully wrapped up its inaugural Whole Exome Sequencing (WES) Interpretation of Genetic Diseases Training Workshop for Southeast Asia, marking a significant milestone in international genomics education.
Held at the BGI Center in late May, the workshop brought together emerging healthcare professionals and researchers from Thailand, Indonesia, and Vietnam for a week of intensive, hands-on learning.
Comprehensive Learning Curriculum
The program aimed to improve genetic disease diagnosis in Southeast Asia. It offered both theoretical lessons and hands-on training in biochemistry, molecular biology, and genetics. Participants explored the use of high-throughput sequencing technologies in clinical interpretation, focusing on both single-gene and chromosomal disorders.
The course also featured face-to-face lab sessions, guided Q&As, and the use of real-world case studies. This learning structure enabling attendees to grasp the rigorous methodologies needed for accurate interpretation of genetic variants.
The workshop offered a deep dive into American College of Medical Genetics (ACMG) guidelines for variant interpretation and classification, and equipped participants with practical skills in variant classification, database tool usage, and interpretation workflows.
Elevating Regional Expertise
The program emphasized critical thinking and curiosity, encouraging participants to question, analyze, and contextualize patient cases, disease phenotypes, and familial inheritance patterns. The diverse professional backgrounds of attendees enriched classroom dialogue, with sharp contrasts between case studies illustrating the complexity and nuance of genetic disease interpretation.
Following the in-person program, participants have now transitioned to a hybrid “offline + online” model to continue their learning. The final certification phase is underway, supported by BGI Genomics’ digital platforms and mentoring.
"We're proud to provide a platform for global collaboration and capacity building in clinical genomics," said Jeremy Cao, General Manager of BGI Genomics Southeast Asia. "We look forward to nurturing long-term partnerships and advancing genetic disease diagnostics across Southeast Asia."
This workshop reflects BGI Genomics' ongoing commitment to global education, medical innovation, and cross-border knowledge exchange. More regional training programs are on the horizon as the company deepens its support for genetic healthcare development worldwide.
About BGI Genomics
BGI Genomics, headquartered in Shenzhen, China, is the world's leading integrated solutions provider of precision medicine. Our services cover more than 100 countries and regions, involving more than 2,300 medical institutions. In July 2017, as a subsidiary of BGI Group, BGI Genomics (300676.SZ) was officially listed on the Shenzhen Stock Exchange.