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In a step that reflects the pioneering role of Theodor Bilharz Research Institute in supporting globally prioritized health issues, the institute organized a high-level specialized scientific event entitled:“A Multidisciplinary Approach to Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR): Bridging Innovation and Clinical Practice into Policy and Action” under the patronage of Professor Ahmed Abdel Aziz, Acting Director of the Institute and Chairman of the Board, with the participation of a distinguished group of senior professors, experts, and specialists in the fields of medicine, scientific research, pharmacy, and health policy.

The event commenced with an opening session during which Prof. Ahmed Abdel Aziz emphasized the importance of strengthening integration among research institutions, academic entities, and healthcare sectors to confront the growing threat of antimicrobial resistance. He noted that combating antimicrobial resistance is no longer the responsibility of a single sector, but rather a global health security issue that requires genuine integration between scientific research, clinical practice, and policymakers. He stressed that the institute places strong support for applied research and medical innovation at the forefront of its priorities, contributing to the development of implementable scientific solutions that serve the healthcare system and support national efforts in addressing current and future health challenges. He further added that the institute is committed to organizing high-quality scientific events that foster the exchange of expertise and promote multidisciplinary research partnerships, thereby reinforcing the role of scientific research as an effective tool for creating impact and improving healthcare quality.

The event was held within the framework of a research project funded by the Science, Technology & Innovation Funding Authority (STDF), focusing on evaluating the efficacy and safety of modern therapeutic approaches against multidrug-resistant Gram-negative bacteria in urinary tract infections, within the “One Health” approach. The scientific and organizational coordination of the event was led by Associate Professor Walaa El-Maadawy, Principal Investigator of the project, Assistant Professor at the Pharmacology Department, and member of the Clinical Pharmacy Unit at Theodor Bilharz Research Institute, in collaboration with Professor Ashraf Abadi, Co-Investigator of the project and Professor of Medicinal Chemistry at the Faculty of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, German University in Cairo.

The event witnessed remarkable scientific attendance and wide engagement from researchers, physicians, and specialists, addressing the latest challenges associated with antimicrobial resistance, recognized as one of the most serious global health threats undermining the effectiveness of therapeutic systems worldwide. Discussions highlighted the urgent need for integrated approaches that combine scientific research, clinical practice, and health policymaking.

The event featured a keynote lecture delivered by Professor Doaa Gamal, Head of the Microbiology Department at the institute, entitled:“Antimicrobial Resistance: The Challenge Before the Storm”during which she reviewed the accelerating dimensions of the antimicrobial resistance crisis and the future challenges that healthcare systems may face if the irrational use of antibiotics continues. She emphasized the importance of expanding accurate diagnostics and implementing early prevention and containment strategies.

The first scientific session included extensive discussions on the current reality of antimicrobial resistance in clinical practice. Speakers addressed the daily challenges physicians face within hospitals, mechanisms of therapeutic decision-making under critical conditions, and the role of antimicrobial stewardship programs in limiting the spread of resistant bacterial strains.

Participants also reviewed the latest trends related to resistance rates within healthcare institutions, as well as the diagnostic and clinical challenges associated with multidrug-resistant bacterial infections. The session further highlighted the importance of integration among infection control teams, clinical pharmacy units, surgical departments, and various therapeutic specialties to achieve optimal medical practices.

The second scientific session focused on moving from diagnosing challenges toward developing practical and applicable solutions through linking scientific research, innovation, and health policy. The session presented several scientific perspectives on translating research outcomes into executive strategies that support healthcare systems, in addition to discussing opportunities for collaboration among academic institutions, healthcare sectors, and industry partners to strengthen efforts against antimicrobial resistance.

The session also addressed the importance of directing scientific research toward actual clinical needs and identifying short- and medium-term priorities to tackle the growing challenges associated with antimicrobial resistance. Additionally, several successful research projects funded by the Science, Technology & Innovation Funding Authority (STDF) were showcased, reflecting the pivotal role of innovation in developing modern and sustainable therapeutic solutions.

The event concluded with an open panel discussion that witnessed rich interaction between attendees and speakers, followed by professional and research networking meetings aimed at enhancing opportunities for joint collaboration among researchers, specialists, and relevant institutions. This served as a renewed affirmation of the pivotal role continuously played by Theodor Bilharz Research Institute in supporting scientific research and addressing strategically significant health issues at both the national and international levels.