A review on the trend of Medical Laboratory Scientists training in Africa

Abstract

This review examines the evolution, challenges, and future directions for strengthening Medical Laboratory Scientist training in Africa. Well-trained professionals are crucial for effective healthcare delivery. This analysis highlights the historical context, current state, and ongoing challenges in Medical Laboratory education across the continent. Medical Laboratory Scientists play a vital role in patient care by informing diagnosis, identifying infectious diseases, ensuring blood safety, and enabling public health initiatives. Training has progressed from the colonial-era on-site instruction to formal university programs and diploma courses. Recent efforts include curriculum revisions, accreditation systems, and technology integration. Current challenges include infrastructure limitations, access to laboratories and technology, faculty and workforce shortages, and graduate retention hinder training effectiveness. Emerging practices like virtual microscopy, simulation training, and international partnerships are improving training methods. Strengthening training requires infrastructural development, industry collaboration, continuous improvement cycles, technology integration, and curriculum harmonization. Transforming Medical Laboratory training requires establishing strong regulatory bodies, strategic plans, standardized curricula, practical training opportunities, and increased funding.