UI VC charges new medical laboratory scientists on ethical standards

Vice-Chancellor of the University of Ibadan, Professor Kayode Adebowale, has emphasised the critical role of biomedical laboratory scientists in medical decision-making, urging them to uphold the highest ethical standards in their professional practice.

Speaking at the induction of 27 Medical Laboratory Science graduands from the university, Professor Adebowale stated that biomedical scientists have no room for error born of negligence, nor compromise driven by expediency, as 70 per cent of medical decisions rely on the data they generate.

According to him, the recent pandemic has brought unprecedented attention to medical laboratory scientists — particularly in virus tracking, infection diagnosis, and public health response guidance.

“As you take your oaths and receive your instruments of induction, I charge you to define your professional journey with uncompromising integrity and ethics; commitment to excellence and continuous learning; accountability and responsibility; compassion and patient-centricity; and collaboration and teamwork, as well as ambassadorship,” he said.

Professor Adebowale also challenged the inductees to become innovators, researchers, leaders, and advocates for the essential role of laboratories in building healthier communities and a stronger nation.

“Carry the torch of knowledge ignited here at the University of Ibadan brightly. Go forth with confidence, competence, and compassion. Make us proud. Serve humanity with distinction.”

Dr Donald Ofili, Registrar of the Medical Laboratory Science Council of Nigeria (MLSCN), formally admitted the graduands into the profession. Represented by Dr Timothy Akinola, Deputy Director at MLSCN, he noted that the correlation between the quality of health professionals’ training and the state of the health sector cannot be overemphasised.

“No system can give what it doesn’t have, nor can any health system rise beyond the capacity of its professionals. We must be intentional and foresighted about the upbringing of our health professionals.”

He reiterated the Council’s zero tolerance for unethical practices, urging the new inductees to remain ethically guided throughout their careers.

Earlier, Provost of the College of Medicine, Professor Temidayo Ogundiran, expressed appreciation to the parents and supporters of the inductees. He reminded the new professionals that service is at the heart of medical laboratory science.

“Accuracy, integrity, and compassion must always be your guiding principles. Your profession demands precision and honesty, for lives truly depend on your attention to detail. Health care is a collaborative effort; your work will be most impactful when it is part of a larger team.”

“As you leave this institution as its representatives, carry its name with honour. Let your actions and conduct reflect the quality of education and training you have received.”

Professor Ishiaq Omotosho, Head of the Department of Biomedical Laboratory Science, noted that the university has produced six sets of medical laboratory scientists to date. He expressed gratitude to all who have contributed to sustaining the BMLS programme at the institution.

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He also appealed for the recruitment of more academic and non-academic staff, particularly to support programme reaccreditation. He called for the provision of a permanent building with the necessary infrastructure for BMLS (as is available for other programmes), adequate funding for training materials and equipment, and increased collaboration with departments and routine hospital laboratories nationwide to ensure proper practical exposure for students.