Should I study Science Laboratory Technology (SLT) or Medical Laboratory Science (MLS)?

 

Studying SLT or MLS is a matter of Choice based on the understanding of an individual and the future plan.

In the short presentation, we will be looking at the benefit of SLT over MLS and the reason for considering studying SLT especially in a highly competitive labour market like Nigeria.

Firstly, it should be noted that no one professional course supersedes the other in the labour market be it Civil Engineering; Architectural Technology; Building Technology; Quantity Surveying; Engineering; Accountancy, Nursing, MLS, SLT among others. 

To set the record straight professional course is a program of study designed to provide individuals with the skills and knowledge required to work in a specific profession or industry. Professional courses are typically more focused and practical oriented than traditional academic programs, and they aim to prepare students for the workforce by providing training in the specific skills, tools, and techniques needed to excel in a particular field. Examples of professional courses include accounting, law, medicine, engineering, SLT, MLS and project management. These courses are typically offered by universities, vocational schools, and professional associations, and they may include classroom instruction, hands-on training, and real-world experience through internships or apprenticeships.

Completion of a professional course may lead to professional certification or licensure, which is often required in order to practice in certain fields.  SLT as a professional course requires licensure and professional certification for individual to practice.

Science Laboratory Technology (SLT) and Medical Laboratory Science (MLS) are two different fields, although they may share some similarities in terms of laboratory practices and equipment.

Science Laboratory Technology involves the application of scientific principles and techniques to investigate and solve problems in different scientific fields, which is not limited to just physics, chemistry, and biology. SLT professionals work in a variety of settings, such as Analytical/research laboratories, food processing plants, quality control laboratories, Health facilities and environmental testing facilities. They may perform tasks such as sample collection, analysis, and interpretation of data.  The SLT is regulated in Nigeria by Nigerian Institute of Science Laboratory Technology with an enabling ACT of parliament 12, 2003 with the main mandate to advance SLT profession in Nigeria

On the other hand, the MLS is regulated in Nigeria by Medical Laboratory Science Council of Nigeria (MLSCN) with the enabling ACT as amended of the parliament 11, 2003 with the mandate to regulate the practice of Medical Laboratory Science. Medical Laboratory Science is a specific branch of laboratory science that focuses on the analysis of human biological samples, such as blood, urine, and tissue samples. MLS professionals are responsible for performing Medical laboratory tests that aid in the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of diseases. They work in clinical laboratories in hospitals, medical research centers, and diagnostic laboratories.  It is not appropriate to say that MLS has advantages over SLT, as they are different fields that serve different purposes. However, there are some benefits of pursuing a career in Science Laboratory Technology that may appeal to individuals over Medical Laboratory Science. Here are some potential advantages of SLT:

Opportunities for research: SLT professionals may have more opportunities to conduct research and contribute to scientific advancements. Many SLT professionals work in research laboratories and are involved in developing new products, improving existing processes, and discovering new knowledge.

Flexibility: SLT professionals may have more flexibility in terms of working hours, work location, and job responsibilities. Many SLT professionals work in contract/Consultancy positions, which allows them to work on short-term projects or work on a part-time basis. Additionally, SLT professionals may work in various settings, including laboratories, manufacturing plants, and field sites.

Diverse career options: Science Laboratory Technology offers a broad range of career opportunities in various fields, such as environmental science, Chemical Science, Radiation Science, food science, Health and forensic science, among others. The diversity can be appealing to individuals who want to explore different career paths within the laboratory sciences.  In accordance with the National University Commission (NUC) the Universities regulatory body in Nigeria, prospective candidates can specialize in the following SLT options (NUC, CCMAS, 2022): Biology Technology, Biochemistry Technology, Chemistry Technology, Chemical/Petroleum Technology, Geology/Mining Technology, Medical Microbiology, Microbiology/Biotechnology, Physics/Electronics Technology, Physiology/Pharmacology Technology which is a 5-year Programme.  Other area where SLT covers including Science laboratory designs, Instrumentation; Laboratory facility designs and Construction; Laboratory Management system; Laboratory Marketing strategies; Laboratory Chemical, Reagent and Equipment sales and services; Laboratory Regulations and Laws; Laboratory Hazard, Safety and Accident among others. The SLT ND holders are designated as Laboratory Technician; the HND SLT holders are designated as Laboratory Technologists while the B.Sc/B.Tech SLT Degree holders are designated as Laboratory Scientist. 

A graduate of SLT can therefore work in almost every sector of the national economy which include; Ceramics Production; Communications; Computing; Cosmetics Industries; Drugs And Pharmaceuticals; Energy and Power; Educational Institutions/Research Institutes; Support Science Teachers; Lecturing;  Researchers and Students In Laboratory Research/Projects; Environmental Control and Health Protection; Environmental Impact Assessment Agencies and Fertilizer; Field Maintenance And Repair; Food and Beverages Production Industries.  The SLT graduates can also be Involved In Quality Control/Assurance of Food Product; Food and Drug Administration Agencies; Industrial And Quality Controls; Iron, Metal and Steel; Medicine; Molecular Laboratories; Oil And Gas; Paints and Vanishes; Paper And Ink; Petrochemical Industries; Pharmaceutical Companies; Plastics; Power And Steal; Product Testing; Forensic Science Institutions; Security (Police, Navy Army and Other

Paramilitary; Semi-Conductor Fabrication, and Instrumentation; Soil Testing; Sugar, Textile; Health and Radiation science; Troubleshooting of Circuits and Systems; Vegetable Oil, Soap And Detergents; Waste Management; Water Industry among other

It's important to note that there are many advantages of pursuing a career in Science Laboratory Technology (SLT) over (MLS).  Although, both fields are essential and provide valuable contributions to scientific knowledge and advancements.  Science Laboratory Technology is a broader field that covers various scientific disciplines. 

Peter Adefisoye OLUWAFISOYE is a Fellow of the Nigerian Institute of Science Laboratory Technology (NISLT)

Online Webinar Series II

ASLTON AKOKA BRANCH UPCOMING WEBINAR

This is to inform our  esteemed Professional Colleagues that our then suspended online Workshop has been finally rescheduled to 15th of April, 2021.

The postponement was due to some internal activities and some other program that tightened the hands of our guest lecturer.

The theme remain;

IMPLEMENTATION OF VIRTUAL LABORATORY DURING AND AFTER COVID 19 ERA.

Date : 15th April, 2021

Venue :  ZOOM

Registration Fee :.    # 2,000

 Certificate to be awarded to all attendee. 

Fliers shall come your way before the week runs out.

Account details : ASLTON UNILAG, Akoka               Bank :  1021279099     UBA

For further enquiry call or chat : 08154454151 or 08060111298

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).

SLT Profession; Setting the Record Straight

Over the years, there has been a lot of misconception and  mis-information about this noble profession some of which are from member of a sister profession who perceived SLT profession as one of their  rivals and thus chooses to be their die hard enemy, others are  from those that are doing it out of  ignorance and lack of knowledge due to the multidisciplinary nature of the profession.

However, this article will help in providing illumination to several aspects of this profession which appear shady and needs greater illumination.

Based on the arguments of some people who will erroneously  say that SLT  is not a professional career, I will like to start from the definition of a profession and we will thereafter set the ball rolling.         Merriam Webster Dictionary defined a Profession as “a calling requiring specialized knowledge and often long and intensive academic preparation”. 

According to the information available on Wikipedia, the term “Professional” is used to describe the standards of education and training that prepare members of the profession with the particular knowledge and skills necessary to perform their specific role within that profession. In addition, most professionals are subject to strict codes of conduct, enshrining rigorous ethical and moral obligations which are setup and agreed upon by the governing body or Council of the Professional body.

With the above explanation ,  what makes a course or career a professional one includes but not limited to:

√ Intensive and specialized training (in School and during working period)

√ Practical approach in their Academic system

√ Regulatory Body and Professional Association

√ Ethical and Moral obligations guiding members 

√ Establishing Act by the government

Picking them one after the other, I will explain briefly how SLT Profession meet and surpasses all the listed above.

For you to be licensed as a chartered Science Laboratory Professional, you must have  concluded a five (5) years B.sc or B.Tech degree in the university or spend five (5) years cumulative in a polytechnic ( two  years OND, one year Industrial Training and two years for HND). Either in the Polytechnic or University, everyone must have undergone rigorous and intensive training program before they can graduate. It is a specialized program with a robust curriculum that equips them for the task ahead. This I will like to discuss in detail in the subsequent parts of this article.

Talk of practical approach, there is no doubt that everyone who had accessed  SLT training program either in university or polytechnic will agree to the fact that the curriculum contains an in-depth practical skills and techniques. Aside the several hours they will spend in the laboratory and on the field for these practical courses, the six month  SIWES and a year I.T program is another great exposure to  the practical aspect of this profession.

In line with the specialized training  of SLT  graduates, they come out with competency  under different sectors such as clinical sector with options such as Biomedical technique, physiology and pharmacology technique, histology and cytology technique, Microbiology/virology technique etc; Biological sector with options in Biochemistry technique, microbiology technique, Biotechnology technique, biological technique etc; Agricultural/Environmental sector such as Aquaculture technique, Aquaculture and fishery technique, plant science technique, environmental biology technique, environmental science technique, marine science technique, hydrobiology/ fishery technique etc; Physical/ natural sector with options such as Applied Geology technique, Geology and Mining technique, Geology technique etc; Chemical/ Petrochemical sector having options like Industrial chemistry/petroleum technique, applied chemistry technique etc; Engineering Technology sector with options in Physics with production, Physics and Electronics Engineering etc.

These had made  SLT profession to be so viable and a necessity  in every sector of the economy among which are medical, pharmaceutical , engineering , oil and gas, environmental,  agricultural  and in all ministries where laboratory services are found.

The Nigeria Institute of Science Laboratory Technology (NISLT) is the regulatory agency established by the act of parliament which was enacted into law in the year 2003. On the professional Association, the same act identified and put into existence the Association of Science Laboratory Technologist of Nigeria (ASLTON). The Institute which has it headquarters in Ibadan and Abuja is charged amongst other roles, the responsibility of advancing the Science Laboratory Technology Profession in the country.

Both NISLT and ASLTON have ethical and moral guidelines in form of code of conducts which must be complied with by all practicing and licensed members. The guiding principles, most of which has been fully introduced and learned while they are in school will help to discharge the duties of the profession with all fairness and high level of excellence.

Lastly, as earlier stated that the profession is duly backed up by the act of government. The Nigeria Institute of Science Laboratory Technology (NISLT) Act 2003 was assented to by the then President Olusegun Obasanjo and had since then become the legal backing of this noble profession. You can easily visit any of the search engine to get a copy while you can also get one from the NISLT website www.nislt.gov.ng. You will see clearly how the act fully describe the existence of  SLT in detail.

It’s time to correct the erroneous impression of this profession with this informative piece. We are distinguished and our profession is a great one  indeed.

Written by

Peter Oni (Biochemistry Technique)

Contributors

Akpede Akpevwe (Biomedical Technique)

Olagbaju Olugbenga (Geology & Mining Technique)

THE ROLE OF A SCIENCE LABORATORY TECHNOLOGIST IN THE RACE FOR A VACCINE FOR COVID 19.

CHIEF IRIKEFE AKPORIDO (B.sc. SLT. BIOLOGICAL TECHNOLOGY -DELSU., M.sc PUBLIC HEALTH -U.S.A, F.NISLT, NISP, NEBOSH, APHA AND SOPHE MEMBERSHIP-#31682).

Vaccine developers are fast-tracking new constructs of various kinds—traditional vaccines, RNA vaccines, DNA vaccines, and others, in hopes of catching up with COVID-19, the deadly respiratory disease that already circles the globe. Developers are also interested in trying to trip up COVID-19 by repurposing vaccines already developed to counter pathogens like SARS-CoV-2. The worldwide scientific mobilization to produce a SARS-CoV-2 vaccine has become a race against time and an escalation in the heated rivalry among competing companies. All are scrambling toward the same goal: producing a vaccine against a viral menace that emerged in central China late last year and is now circling the globe.

As at today 12th May 2020, more than 2 million people around the world had become infected with covid 19, and unfortunately over 4 thousand of these infected people are from my home country NIGERIA., also global deaths had already breached the 100,000 mark, and over a 100 of them are also from my country NIGERIA according to report from the Nigeria Center For Disease Control (NCDC), with no end to the pandemic’s exponential growth in sight. It will be months, before laboratory technologist and public health officials say or known whether either of the vaccines entering clinical trials will be widely used to effectively immunize populations against SARS-CoV-2. Multiple other candidate vaccines are being studied by research teams globally, and several are set to be launched into clinical testing within the next few weeks to months.

Finding a safe and effective vaccine to prevent an increase in the spread of SARS-CoV-2 infection is an urgent laboratory technologist and a public health officer's priority. it is impossible to give a precise date when a vaccine will be ready for what will amount to tens of millions of immunizations. The types of SARS-CoV-2 vaccines under development worldwide are mostly genomic, DNA or RNA. However, the novel coronavirus differs in subtle, yet significant ways compared with previous members of the coronavirus family, SARS-CoV-1 and Middle East respiratory syndrome–related coronavirus (MERS-CoV). These viruses seem to primarily infect the lower respiratory tract, and lightly makes it difficult to spread between humans. But the new SARS-CoV-2, however, seems to replicate well in the upper respiratory tract, grows there quickly to high viral loads, and is able to spread between humans, who transmit it simply by droplets produced during breathing and coughing.

Therefore in conclusion, if all proceeds as planned, the federal government of Nigeria, through the institute of science laboratory technology, under the federal ministry of science and technology, should immediately make available an estimated sum of $9million or more to support science laboratory technology preclinical and clinical research work. This fund will be used to setup a vaccine development plant, which will accelerate vaccine production and testing in Nigeria.

Feel free to forward any question you might have to the email below or call the number to ask your question.
Thank you.

M.D IRIKEFE CORPORATE SERVICES

YOU CAN LIKE OUR FACEBOOK PAGE : IRIKEFE CORPORATE SERVICES 

Irikefeman@yahoo.com