COVID Kurakani (Covid Conversations): understanding stakeholder perceptions of COVID-19 sequencing in Nepal

The Wellcome Trust funded Epidemic Intelligence project has implemented large scale genome sequencing for SARS CoV-2 at the only functioning sequencing laboratory in country, and stimulated discussion on the future role of pathogen sequencing and approaches to build capacity in Nepal. COVID Kurakani (Covid Conversations) will engage stakeholders to stimulate increased understanding of the role of pathogen sequencing, allow researchers to listen to, be informed by and respond to community perceptions and concerns around sequencing, build trust between participating communities and the researchers and facilitate capacity building for genome sequencing in the country. Our key goals are: - Build capacity among the epidemic intelligence team to develop and deliver high quality public engagement activities surrounding pathogen sequencing for epidemic response. - Conduct an EDGE analysis of public engagement status at BNMT. - Conduct an internal workshop to design the public engagement strategy, including the senior management team. - Utilise media expertise among the research team to develop and deliver a series of panel discussion programmes for national broadcast with three participatory target audiences. - Understand community and stakeholder perceptions of COVID-19 sequencing. - Address knowledge gaps and concerns among stakeholders to build trust and inform the dialogue surrounding pathogen sequencing.