^{By Revoni Vamosi, Laboratory Assistant}

^{27 June 2025}

Revoni Vamosi (right) and Andi Zulkifli (left) perform diagnostic tests, analyse human and environmental samples collected from informal settlements, and maintain equipment at RISE’s laboratories. They are also based on opposite sides of the Asia-Pacific. Vamosi recently travelled from Fiji to Indonesia to exchange technical skills and build the cross-country capacity of RISE.

Reflecting on my recent trip to Indonesia, I was deeply impacted by the significance of capacity building for personal and professional growth. The original purpose of my trip was to attend the MinION Nanopore sequencing training, which enhanced my skills in DNA extraction and sequencing under Zul's expert guidance. This knowledge will be invaluable as we implement these methods in Fiji later this year.

Additionally, I conducted a refresher session on the Kato-Katz method for our team, reviewing egg shapes and helminth eggs while discussing findings from both Indonesia and Fiji. This collaborative approach fostered teamwork among participants from both countries.

Another rewarding aspect was conducting the Occupational Health and Safety audit for the Indonesia research team. My experiences in Fiji allowed me to align our own safety assessment processes, leading to valuable recommendations for enhancing safety measures and compliance.

Overall, the experience emphasized the significance of continuous learning and knowledge sharing. By building our expertise and engaging in meaningful exchanges, we strengthen not only our skills but also the capacity of the project. As we move forward, I'm excited to apply what I've learned and continue collaborating with our colleagues in Indonesia and the rest of the RISE family.

^{Vamosi and Zulkifli’s work is about improving understandings of pathogens in informal settlement environments
in Fiji and Indonesia.}