LIMITING OUR LIMITATIONS: A CRITICAL LOOK INTO SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGICAL ADVANCEMENT IN NIGERIA.

Today academic trainings in form of theory and practical in the field of science and technology in Nigeria has become nothing more than a foundational structures for the one been trained to lean or build on into the future career practice. It is now the survival of the fittest to move with time and tides. 

Time and tides now dictates the quality of output in a service discharged within specific periods. Most equipment for trainings are either obsolete, not functional or not available in our various institutions, Industries, Factories, etc. 

Another fundamental challenge is that in this age, globally equipment design has metamorphosed from analog to digital; so, virtually every component has been modernized and computerized. This has led to a faster, neater and quicker way of investigation, analysis and diagnosis. 

Coping with changes in analytical method for global research acceptability is equally a limiting factor to a developing country like ours. Non-availability of good maintenance culture and maintenance personnel to manage our existing facilities pose another critical challenge.

How do we get out of these predicaments? 

Laboratory Technologists are the simple panacea to the above endemic situation. Every institution that engages in science, technology and engineering trainings should go back to do the following;

Firstly, they should put in place equipment maintenance and design centers as a department in their institution to be managed by a team of laboratory Technologists/Scientists.

Secondly, every institution should start sponsoring their SCIENTISTS and TECHNOLOGISTS for oversea trainings and conferences for international exposure to new technologies and innovations and also on local periodic trainings relating to their respective areas of specialization.

Furthermore, it is obvious that Technologist(s) has not only been under utilized in our various institutions (be it University, Research institute and Polytechnics etc) in Nigeria but that they have not been placed on their right pedestal and designation. This should be revisited for correction to boost their morale for better performance.

Lastly, procurement of modern day equipment should be given priority by every management. For the above chain of solution to continue to flow, a square peg must always be put in a square hole when it comes to Technologist and Scientist recruitment and placement in every establishment.

The only undoubtful panacea to our crawling science and technological advancement are the CHARTERED SCIENTISTS & TECHNOLOGISTS empowered by NISLT License. 

Written by Olagbaju, Olugbenga, AISLT (Geology & Mining option).

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A brief on Science Laboratory Technology (SLT) ... Part 1

 SLT is a program that focuses on chemical and biological concentrations with laboratory experiences that cover a variety of applications in biological, biochemical, chemical, water, environmental, forensic, petrochemical, pharmaceutical, natural and earth, clinical and agricultural science areas.

As a scientific laboratory technologist/scientist, you'll be involved in a variety of laboratory-based investigations within biological, chemical, physical and life science areas.

You may carry out sampling, testing, measuring, recording and analysing of results as part of a scientific team. Your job is to provide all the required technical support to enable the laboratory to function effectively, while adhering to correct procedures and health and safety guidelines.

As a scientific laboratory technologist and scientist in the *clinical* sector, you'll carry out work that assists in the advancement and development of modern medicine and science. The work plays an important role in the foundation stages of research and development (R&D) and in scientific analysis and investigation.

The role of a *teaching laboratory technologist/scientist* is similar although their work takes place in educational institutions, where they support science teachers, lecturers and students for research.



*Responsibilities of a science laboratory technologist and scientist*


Science laboratory technologist and scientist carry out the work that allows scientists to concentrate on, and perform, the more complex analytical processes in the laboratory.

Tasks can vary depending on the specific employer but typically involve:

# performing laboratory tests in order to produce reliable and precise data to support scientific investigations;
carrying out routine tasks accurately and following strict methodologies to carry out analyses;

# preparing specimens and samples;
constructing, maintaining and operating standard laboratory equipment, for example centrifuges, titrators, pipetting machines and pH meters;

# ensuring the laboratory is well-stocked and resourced;
recording and sometimes interpreting results to present to senior colleagues;

# using computers and performing mathematical calculations for the preparation of graphs;

# keeping up to date with technical developments, especially those which can save time and improve reliability;

# conducting searches on identified topics relevant to the research;

# following and ensuring strict safety procedures and safety checks.


The actual nature of the work will depend upon the organisation. For example, within an environmental health department, the work may involve analysing food samples to consider prosecution and to protect public health, while within the water industry the work will mainly focus on the collection and analysis of water samples.


*What to expect*

Work is almost exclusively in sterile laboratories where you will have to wear protective clothing, but there may be occasional trips out to collect or deliver specimens or to take measurements.
You will have to follow strict health and safety procedures, due to the presence and use of toxic chemicals and the requirement to handle animals in medical and chemical laboratories.

 You may be exposed to hazardous chemicals, dust, biological waste, bodily fluids, fumes and toxic waste, so there is often a degree of risk involved.
Some degree of lifting and heavy work is common with the daily moving of equipment, machinery, samples and supplies.

Work is often carried out in teams with scientists and other technologist.
Freelance technical work, such as water and soil testing, may be possible but often requires expensive specialist equipment and significant experience.

*Job prospect*

Jobs are available throughout Nigeria as laboratories are situated in most towns and cities.
Some industries may require field work to be carried out, which may involve travel within a working day. Absence from home overnight and overseas work is generally common most especially those in the clinical field.

*To be continued.........*


Compiled by:
*Akpede Akpevwe Anthony(AISLT)*