Mirian Gom 
KWARA, Nigeria – Kwara State has commenced a 10-day training for 44 Medical Laboratory Scientists in malaria and tuberculosis microscopy as part of efforts to improve diagnostic accuracy and strengthen laboratory services across the state.
The Commissioner for Health, Dr Amina Ahmed El-Imam, announced the programme while declaring the training open in Ilorin, described the exercise as a critical step towards improving accurate diagnosis and saving lives, urging participants to apply the skills acquired in their respective facilities.
She said laboratory scientists play a key role in diagnosis and treatment because the quality of laboratory information directly influences clinical decisions.
The commissioner warned that misdiagnosis could result in unnecessary costs, prolonged illness and loss of lives.
She urged the participants to prioritise quality assurance, continuous learning and knowledge sharing in their professional duties.
Earlier, the Director of Public Health, Dr Oluwatosin Fakayode, said the training was designed to build the capacity of Medical Laboratory Scientists in malaria and tuberculosis microscopy and improve the accuracy and reliability of diagnosis across Kwara.
The lead facilitator, Dr Oladosu Oladipo of the ANDI Centre of Excellence for Malaria Diagnosis at the University of Lagos, commended the state government for investing in diagnostic capacity.
Oladipo urged the government to establish a dedicated malaria diagnosis centre to sustain the initiative and further strengthen diagnostic services.
The training is being conducted in two batches, with each batch undergoing 10 days of intensive theoretical and practical sessions in malaria and tuberculosis microscopy.
The state government expects the programme to improve the ability of participating scientists to provide reliable diagnostic services and support better clinical decision-making.
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