TSU Produces First Set Of Medical Laboratory Science Graduates, Inducts 155

Taraba State University has recorded another major academic milestone with the successful conduct of the maiden induction and oath-taking ceremony for the pioneer graduates of the Department of Medical Laboratory Science, Faculty of Health Science. The historic event brought together academics, parents, traditional rulers, students, healthcare professionals, and members of the university community who gathered to witness the formal induction of 155 pioneer graduates into the medical laboratory science profession. The Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Sunday Paul Bako, was represented at the ceremony by the DVC (Academic), Assoc. Prof. Ahmad M. Baba. Other dignitaries present included the DVC, Development Services, Prof. Mahmud H. Umar, Deputy Registrar Yakubu Fuwa, Dean of the Faculty of Science, Dr. Rhoda Onyekwena, HoD of Medical Laboratory Science, Dr. Emmanuel Kashibu, Chief Medical Director of Specialist Hospital, Dr. Mustapha Mohammed, representatives of the Medical Laboratory Science Council of Nigeria (MLSCN), and other distinguished guests. The ceremony marked the first induction exercise in the history of the department and reflected the university management's commitment to academic excellence and professional development under the leadership of Prof. Sunday Paul Bako. Five graduates who distinguished themselves academically with First Class honours were specially recognized and awarded by the Medical Laboratory Science Council of Nigeria for their exceptional performance, dedication, and perseverance. Speaking during the event, DVC Academic Assoc. Prof. Ahmad M. Baba, who delivered the Vice-Chancellor's address, described the occasion as the beginning of a new chapter for the university and the department. According to him, the university administration faced enormous challenges upon assumption of office, particularly in securing accreditation and professional recognition for critical programmes, including Medical Laboratory Science. He noted that through strategic planning, determination, and collective commitment, the university successfully achieved the accreditation milestone now being celebrated. The Vice-Chancellor commended the Executive Governor of Taraba State, Dr. Agbu Kefas, for his unwavering support toward educational development and his commitment to transforming the university into a centre of excellence. He also paid tribute to the late former Registrar of the Medical Laboratory Science Council of Nigeria, Dr. Tosan Erhabor, acknowledging his contributions toward the success of the programme. Addressing the newly inducted graduates, he urged them to uphold professionalism, integrity, ethics, and excellence in the discharge of their duties. Representing the Acting Registrar/CEO of the Medical Laboratory Science Council of Nigeria, Dr. Donald Ibe Ofili, the Assistant Director of the SRD Department of MLSCN, Mr. Nnachi A. Orji, congratulated the graduates for being found worthy in character and learning. He described the induction as a formal admission into the noble medical laboratory science profession and encouraged the inductees to maintain ethical standards capable of promoting the image of the profession. He further applauded the rapid growth of the Bachelor of Medical Laboratory Science (BMLS) programme within its short existence and praised the leadership of Prof. Sunday Paul Bako for advancing research, scholarship, and community service in the institution. In his remarks, Head of Department Dr. Emmanuel Kashibu stated that the induction ceremony symbolized the birth of a new generation of medical laboratory professionals equipped to contribute meaningfully to healthcare delivery, research, and national development. He charged the graduates to uphold the highest standards of professionalism and allow compassion and dedication to guide their service to humanity. Delivering the closing remarks, DVC Development Services Prof. Mahmud H. Umar congratulated the pioneer inductees and reminded them that, as ambassadors of the university, they carry the responsibility of protecting the values, reputation, and standards of the institution. He expressed confidence that the success recorded by the pioneer graduates would open greater opportunities for future students and further strengthen the university's academic reputation.