Department of Medical Laboratory Science
The First Induction/Oath-Taking Ceremony of Medical Laboratory Science Students at JABU
On Thursday, January 23, 2025, Joseph Ayo Babalola University (JABU) made history with the first-ever induction and oath-taking ceremony for its Medical Laboratory Science students. The prestigious event, held at the iconic Oba Olashore Auditorium, commenced at 10:00 a.m. and drew an impressive gathering of dignitaries, students, families, and friends who came to celebrate this significant milestone.
As the day unfolded, the atmosphere buzzed with anticipation as guests and dignitaries arrived, greeted by the warm hospitality JABU is known for. The ceremony began with a stately academic procession. The inductees, guided by the College Officer for the College of Health Sciences, led the procession with pride and dignity. Following them were the Deans, Principal Officers of the university, the distinguished Guest Lecturer, the Registrar and CEO of the Medical Laboratory Science Council of Nigeria (MLSCN), and the Vice-Chancellor of JABU, each taking their place to honour this momentous occasion.
The ceremony officially opened with a harmonious rendition of the anthems—Nigeria’s national anthem, the Osun State anthem, the JABU anthem, and the anthem of the Association of Medical Laboratory Scientists of Nigeria (AMLSN). These melodies set the tone for a day of celebration and reflection. The University Chaplain, Pastor Oluwasanmi, then led a heartfelt opening prayer, invoking blessings for the inductees and the proceedings.
Dr Ronald Ayodele Bejide, the Acting Head of the Department of Medical Laboratory Science, delivered a warm welcome address, expressing the department’s pride in the students’ accomplishments. Professor J.A. Folayan, the Dean of the College of Health Sciences, followed with thoughtful opening remarks, emphasizing the importance of professionalism and integrity in medical laboratory science.
In his address, the Vice-Chancellor, Professor O.A. Fakolujo, commended the inductees for their hard work and resilience and highlighted the pivotal role they would play in the healthcare industry. His words inspired the students, their families, and the larger academic community present.
A Historic Moment
The audience was then treated to an insightful citation of the Guest Lecturer, Professor Tatfeng Y. Mirabeau, delivered by Dr. Oni E. Sunday. Professor Mirabeau, the Dean of Postgraduate School at Niger Delta University, captivated the audience with his lecture titled “The Role of Medical Laboratory Science in Precision Medicine.” His thought-provoking speech underscored the growing importance of precision medicine and the critical contributions of medical laboratory scientists in this transformative field.
The ceremony transitioned into a lively interlude featuring a drama presentation that added a touch of entertainment to the academic event. With the spotlight on the inductees, Dr. Bejide presented them formally, paving the way for one of the most significant moments of the day—the administration of the professional oath. This solemn act was conducted by the Registrar of MLSCN, Professor Tosan Erhabor, affirming the inductees’ commitment to the ethical and professional standards of their calling.
The ceremony further celebrated excellence through the presentation of awards. The Award of Excellence was conferred on a distinguished individual for their contributions to the field, while outstanding inductees were recognized for their exemplary performance. The Registrar of MLSCN also presented the much-anticipated practising licenses, marking the beginning of their professional journey.
The inductees received congratulatory handshakes from the Vice-Chancellor, the Registrar of MLSCN, and the Dean of Medical Laboratory Science at JABU, a moment that symbolized the university’s pride in their achievements. Goodwill messages followed, including a heartfelt welcome to the newly inducted scientists from the AMLSN Chairman of the Osun State branch.
The class valedictorian then delivered an inspiring address, reflecting on the journey of the inductees and expressing gratitude to the faculty, family, and friends who supported them. The Registrar of JABU closed the ceremony with a vote of thanks, appreciating all who contributed to the event’s success.
The event concluded with a closing prayer and the harmonious rendition of the anthems, bringing the ceremony to a dignified close. The academic procession, this time in reverse order, signalled the end of an unforgettable day.
This first induction and oath-taking ceremony of Medical Laboratory Science students at JABU was a remarkable celebration of excellence, dedication, and the bright future of healthcare in Nigeria. It marked not only the beginning of a professional journey for the inductees but also a proud moment in the history of Joseph Ayo Babalola University.