Tuesday, August 26, 2014

Nigerian Medical Laboratory Scientist- Aliyu Samuel Wins African Lab Professional Award

The African Society Of Laboratory Medicine recently gave the 2014 Lab Professional award to a Nigerian
Medical Laboratory Scientist, Aliyu Samuel Abdulmumuni.  We engaged him recently in an online interview
where he spoke about the award and other sundry issues. Enjoy......

MedLabNews: Can you introduce yourself to our readers?

Aliyu Samuel: I'm Aliyu Samuel Abdulmumuni, and you may like to know that am passionate about public engagement with medical lab science. I work as medical laboratory scientist and I volunteer with the Royal College of Pathologists of the UK as a regional coordinator for National Pathology Week

MedLabNews: That's interesting. You won and award recently. Can you tell us what it was about and when?

Aliyu Samuel: I feel very honored to have been recognized by the African Society for Laboratory Medicine as an outstanding young laboratory professional. The award represents an important initiative for the promotion of young laboratory professionals as it not only increases our passion for what we do but to encourage professionalism in our chosen careers
this was in April 20014

MedLabNews: Was there any nomination process you were subjected to or was there a competitive process you undertook before the reputable body chose you as the outstanding Young Laboratory Professional? Can you tell our readers what actually transpired?

Aliyu Samuel: I think they had their own assessment standard.
It's strictly based on merit. In fact we were just four in
the program, myself and two Ethiopians and a lady from the
 U.S. Also, they would like to see previous articles written
 by the applicant to assess the applicant's
fluency and scientific knowledge



MedLabNews: Can you tell us what the communications Internship is about and how other young Medical Laboratory Scientists who are interested can participate?

Aliyu Samuel: I think it is important to mention that the communications internship
position is unpaid part-time work. The essence of the internship is to train young
professionals to be part of a network of field writers.
As Interns we assisted with the development of web-based news articles, and promotional materials to advance
 the overall ASLM mission and ASLM2020

MedLabNews: Can you tell us what the communications Internship is about and how other young Medical Laboratory Scientists who are interested can participate?

Aliyu Samuel: I think it is important to mention that the communications internship position is unpaid part-time work. The essence of the internship is to train young professionals to be part of a network of field writers. As Interns we assisted with the development of web-based news articles, and promotional materials to advance the overall ASLM mission and ASLM2020 strategic vision objectives. Content was typically oriented toward laboratory-related issues with an emphasis on public health and/or scientific impact. As regards the participation of other young scientists, I think it would be best to keep an eye on the ASLM web page (www.aslm.org) for any opportunity

MedLabNews: What is the structure of the training; is it possible for those already in government employment to participate?

Aliyu Samuel:The program is well structured to accommodate any cadre of professional but there are rules of engagement which of course is articulated clearly when applying

MedLabNews: You also said you are a volunteer for the Royal College of Pathology, United Kingdom. How can Medical Laboratory Scientists in Nigeria who are interested in volunteerism enroll for the program?
The program is about public engagement with pathology, creating awareness about the important roles played by laboratory professionals in patients care. I and some colleagues have been volunteering and we've had tremendous successes in our past outings. To volunteer for the program, you can visit www.ilovepathology.org  or better still, contact me

MedLabNews: Now can you tell us what you are working on currently?

Aliyu Samuel: I am currently working to see that there is the establishment of an African laboratory professionals week. A proposal is already under review by the African Society for Laboratory Medicine in conjunction with the African Union. I believe in the coming months there should be some positive outcomes

MedLabNews: Lastly what future do you foresee for Medical Laboratory Science in Nigeria?

Aliyu Samuel: The medical laboratory profession has been an ever-changing field. Though we've being through thorny parts but things are getting bright. Today, we have many MLS taking expanded scientific roles and at the forefront of research and innovation.This is very important for the future of the profession. Again, I must say that there is need to empower young Medical Laboratory Scientist professionals through mentorship. We need to give them a sense of calling and a sense of purpose. Learning has to be at the heart of everything and our hospital settings has to have the optimal conditions for learning. Public engagement can also have a positive impact on Medical Laboratory Science and will be a critical part of our future.


MedLabNews: Wishing you the best.

Aliyu Samuel: Thanks

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