The Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences and Technology, College of Health Sciences, University of Jos, has inducted 165 newly qualified Medical Laboratory Scientists amid cheers and celebration.
The induction ceremony took place at the College of Health Sciences Multipurpose Hall, Lamingo.
Speaking at the event, the Vice-Chancellor of the University of Jos, Professor Tanko Ishaya, who is also the Chairman of the Committee of Vice-Chancellors of Federal Universities in Nigeria, congratulated the graduands for their resilience and hard work. He told them that with their certificates, they could “cross any ocean and climb any mountain,” urging them to remain good ambassadors of the University wherever they find themselves.
Professor Ishaya noted that while opportunities abroad may arise, the graduands should not forget their country. He added that Medical Laboratory Sciences, Nursing, and Medicine and Surgery are among the three most sought-after courses by admission seekers at the University of Jos, describing the inductees as fortunate to have gained admission and successfully completed their studies.
Earlier, the Head of the Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, Professor J. M. Banda, described the occasion as a landmark achievement for the Department, the College, and the University. Quoting the Bible, he said there is a time for everything — a time to be admitted, a time to graduate, and a time to be inducted.
According to him, laboratory technology is the backbone of modern medicine, stressing that without it, medicine is blind. He charged the inductees to uphold accuracy, integrity, and professionalism, noting that integrity is the foundation of trust in healthcare. He further encouraged them to embrace change, pursue lifelong learning, and lead with integrity while serving with passion.
In his address, the Dean of the Faculty of Health Sciences and Technology, Professor James Garba Damen, advised the inductees to collaborate and synergize with other health-sector professionals, emphasizing that teamwork is vital for success.
Administering the oath, the Acting Registrar and Chief Executive Officer of the Medical Laboratory Science Council of Nigeria (MLSCN), Dr. Donald Ibe Ofili, represented by the Assistant Director, Operations and Discipline, reminded the inductees that the profession is globally recognized for its immense contribution to healthcare. He cautioned them against professional misconduct.
The graduands received professional licenses after a handshake with the representative of the MLSCN Registrar and the Vice-Chancellor.
Goodwill messages were delivered by representatives of parents, the graduating class, the Provost of the Federal College of Medical Laboratory and Veterinary Sciences, National Veterinary Research Institute, Vom, and the Plateau State Government. Representing the Governor of Plateau State, the Commissioner for Youth and Sports, Hon. Musa Ashom, assured that the state government is ready to partner with the University of Jos to promote quality and functional education.
Dignitaries at the event included the National President of ASUU and Dean of Students Affairs, University of Jos, Professor Chris Piwuna, and the Global President of the University of Jos Alumni Association, Mr. Peter Gad Shamaki.
The ceremony concluded with a symbolic bow by the graduands to their esteemed parents and guardians in appreciation of their support.