COOU Makes History as All 35 Pioneer Medical Laboratory Science Students Pass Final Professional Exams
By Doris Onyekachi | IchieTimes
Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University (COOU) has recorded a major academic breakthrough as all 35 students in the pioneer set of its Department of Medical Laboratory Science passed their final professional examinations, achieving a 100 per cent success rate.
The examinations were conducted on October 14, following the arrival of representatives of the Medical Laboratory Science Council of Nigeria (MLSCN) at the university on October 13.
The achievement marks a significant milestone for the department, with its first cohort completing the final professional examination stage and setting a positive precedent for subsequent students. The graduates will, however, be required to fulfil applicable certification and registration requirements before commencing professional practice.
The success followed years of academic work, practical training and professional assessments. As the pioneer cohort, the students have established an encouraging foundation for the department and demonstrated the value of sustained academic preparation and institutional support.
The achievement also highlights the contributions of the Dean of the Faculty, Prof. M.N. Orji, and Prof. Chinelo Umedum, whose efforts helped lay the foundation for the establishment and development of the programme.
The Head of Department, Dr. Stella Afulukwe, expressed delight over the result, attributing the students’ performance to their hard work, determination and commitment, as well as the dedication and sacrifices of the academic staff.
She also acknowledged the support of the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Kate Azuka Omenugha, towards the growth and progress of the department.
The milestone adds to COOU’s efforts to strengthen academic excellence and professional training under Omenugha’s leadership, which promotes the university’s 3Vs of Values, Viability and Visibility.
Medical Laboratory Science plays a critical role in healthcare through laboratory investigations that support disease diagnosis, treatment decisions and patient management. The success of the pioneer cohort therefore represents an important step in the university’s contribution to developing skilled professionals for the health sector.
The 100 per cent pass rate stands as a notable achievement for the students, their lecturers and the university, providing a strong starting point for the department as it prepares future cohorts of medical laboratory scientists.
