By Bassey Asuquo
Calabar (Flowerbudnews): The University of Calabar( Unical) has inducted 216 graduates of the Faculty of Medical Laboratory Science into the Medical Laboratory Science profession.
Speaking at the Godswill Akpabio International Conference Centre during the 22nd Oath-Taking and Induction Ceremony of the Medical Laboratory Graduands, the Vice Chancellor of Unical, Prof. Offiong Efanga Offiong described the inductees as “problem-solvers, innovators and nation-builders” and charged them to uphold the ethics of the profession.
Represented by the Deputy Vice Chancellor Academic, Prof. Ekaete Enang, the Vice Chancellor reminded the new Medical Laboratory Scientists that learning does not end with graduation, urging them to continually update their knowledge and skills to meet the evolving demands of healthcare and technological advancement.
Prof. Offiong also encouraged the inductees to remain grateful to their parents, lecturers and the University of Calabar for their sacrifices and support, while urging them to be worthy ambassadors of the institution, renowned for its culture of excellence.
Earlier, the Provost of the College of Medical Sciences, Prof. Ngim Ngim, congratulated the graduates on their successful induction and commended their resilience throughout their academic training.
He appreciated the University’s management, faculty members and parents for their contributions to the students’ success, urging the new professionals to uphold ethical standards, work collaboratively within the healthcare system and give back to their alma mater.
Also speaking, the Dean of the Faculty of Medical Laboratory Science, Prof. Iya Eze Bassey, charged the inductees to uphold integrity, embrace lifelong learning and innovation, prioritise patient welfare and remain worthy ambassadors of the University of Calabar while making meaningful contributions to healthcare delivery.
In his address, the Registrar and Chief Executive Officer of the Medical Laboratory Science Council of Nigeria (MLSCN), Dr. Donald Ibe Ofili, represented by Nnenaya Nzeaku, congratulated the newly inducted graduates and commended the University of Calabar for its commitment to producing competent Medical Laboratory Scientists.
He encouraged the institution to continue expanding its facilities and manpower to sustain excellence in Medical Laboratory Science education.
He further advised the inductees to uphold professionalism and ethical standards, complete their mandatory internship before proceeding for the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), continually improve their competencies and place patients’ welfare at the centre of their professional practice.
Delivering the induction lecture titled “Quality Medical Laboratory Services in an Era of Rapid Innovations in Science and Technology and Challenging Economy,” Prof. Paul Inyang-Etoh urged the new professionals to adopt cost-effective laboratory management practices, embrace innovation and digital technologies, leverage available funding opportunities and implement quality management systems to ensure efficient and sustainable laboratory services.
He further encouraged them to maintain high standards of professionalism and quality assurance, prepare for the realities of professional practice and take advantage of emerging opportunities within Nigeria’s expanding healthcare and laboratory sector.
Welcoming the inductees into the University of Calabar Faculty of Medical Laboratory Science Alumni Association, the Chairman, Dr. Aniekan-Augusta Eyo, urged the new members to uphold the University’s values, remain connected to their alma mater and contribute to the advancement of the profession through mentorship and selfless service.
Similarly, the Chairman of the Association of Medical Laboratory Scientists of Nigeria (AMLSN), Cross River State Branch, Mr. Dennis Ekpo, charged the newly inducted professionals to uphold integrity, embrace lifelong learning and actively participate in the Association as they contribute to safeguarding public health.
Speaking on behalf of the graduating class, the overall best graduating student and valedictorian, Achor Ajuma Victoria, reflected on the challenges and triumphs of their academic journey, expressing gratitude to God, the University management, lecturers, parents and colleagues for their support.
She assured the gathering that the Class of 2025 would uphold the values of the University of Calabar and serve as worthy ambassadors of the institution wherever they find themselves.