tjph Turkish Journal of Public Health 1304-1088 Halk Sağlığı Uzmanları Derneği 10.20518/tjph.1785400 Health Promotion Sağlığın Geliştirilmesi Enhancing educational and research capacities in nutrition and dietetics across central Asian universities https://orcid.org/0000-0002-2213-1373 Dzhusupov Kenesh International Higher School of Medicine https://orcid.org/0000-0003-2637-0117 Konrad Manuela University of Applied Sciences JOANNEUM https://orcid.org/0000-0001-5180-5528 Draxler Theresa University of Applied Sciences JOANNEUM https://orcid.org/0000-0001-6020-349X Kalkan Indrani İstanbul Medipol Üniversitesi https://orcid.org/0009-0007-9766-3685 Auer Anna University of Applied Sciences JOANNEUM https://orcid.org/0000-0002-1704-2659 Grach Daniela University of Applied Sciences JOANNEUM https://orcid.org/0009-0008-8515-9040 Sfiri Anastasia University of Applied Sciences JOANNEUM 04 09 2026 1 09 17 2025 03 05 2026 Copyright © 2003, Turkish Journal of Public Health 2003 Turkish Journal of Public Health

Central Asia faces critical nutritional challenges, including high rates of micronutrient deficiencies and rising diet-related non-communicable diseases. Addressing these issues requires significant enhancements in nutritional education and research capacities. The “Building Educational and Research Capacities in Nutrition and Dietetics in Central Asia” (BERNICA) project aims to enhance educational and research infrastructure in Nutrition and Dietetics (N&D) across Central Asian universities. The project established a robust management framework, engaging stakeholders and setting up monitoring and evaluation systems. Capacity building was achieved through training programs and upgrading laboratory facilities. Central Asian lecturers, trained by dietetics and online learning design experts, developed and implemented innovative, region-specific curricula and online courses in N&D. The project successfully established structured implementation, enhancing the expertise of 32 lecturers from 8 universities in Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan. Modern equipment improved institutional capacities. Lecturers developed new teaching modules with innovative learning scenarios, tailored to local health needs. Early feedback indicated positive impacts on student engagement and learning outcomes. The BERNICA project significantly advanced nutritional education in Central Asia by integrating innovative educational practices and improving research capabilities. Future directions include developing regional nutritional standards, scaling initiatives, and ensuring sustainable long-term impacts

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