By Nsan Neji
UTURU (CONVERSEER) – The Medical Laboratory Science Council of Nigeria (MLSCN) has officially inducted and licensed 187 graduates of the Faculty of Medical Laboratory Science, Abia State University (ABSU), Uturu, into the profession.
The induction ceremony, which was held at the university campus, marked a significant milestone in the professional journey of the new scientists, who are now fully qualified to contribute to healthcare delivery in Nigeria and beyond.
Delivering the keynote lecture titled “Medical Laboratory Molecular Science in the Service of Man for National Development,” Professor Boniface Ekpo described medical laboratory scientists as the “pathfinders and custodians of the medical profession.”
He emphasised their critical role in disease diagnosis and treatment, noting that no effective healthcare delivery system can function without the input of medical laboratory professionals.
In his address, the Registrar of MLSCN, Dr Donald Ofili, who was represented by Dr Osarati Agbonlahor, charged the inductees to adhere strictly to the ethics and standards of the profession. He warned that any member who violates the council’s code of ethics risks having their licence withdrawn.
Also speaking at the event, the Provost, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Professor Chuks Kamanu, represented by Professor A. A. Nwankwo, and the Dean, Faculty of Medical Laboratory Science, Professor Obioma Okechi, both affirmed that the graduates have been thoroughly trained in diagnostic medicine. They expressed confidence in their readiness to deliver quality services across healthcare institutions.
The Vice Chancellor of the University, Professor Ndukwe Okeudo, in his remarks delivered by the Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academic), Professor Emmanuel Akubugwo, urged the graduates to apply their knowledge and skills in addressing the health challenges confronting humanity.
“As scientists, you must stay abreast of modern scientific innovations, possess sound clinical skills, uphold professional integrity, and be committed to evidence-based diagnostics in order to thrive in this noble profession,” Professor Okeudo stated.
He congratulated the newly inducted scientists and commended their parents for the sacrifices made towards their academic success. He also acknowledged the Governor of Abia State and Visitor to the University, Dr Alex Otti, for his unwavering support towards the advancement of education and healthcare in the state, which he said has contributed immensely to the institution’s capacity to produce competent health professionals.
Delivering the valedictory speech, Agor Rose, who emerged as the overall best graduating student, expressed gratitude to the university management, faculty members, and parents for their unwavering support. She pledged that the graduates would continue to be worthy ambassadors of Abia State University.
The event was attended by dignitaries from the health sector, the academic community, parents, and well-wishers, who gathered to celebrate the success and future prospects of the newly inducted medical laboratory scientists.
