The Ministry of Health recently certified its first batch of Medical Laboratory Technicians in a graduation ceremony held at the Georgetown Club on Camp Street.
The 12-month programme saw 22 persons from five different regions being selected out of 85 applicants to be trained. Laboratory Coordinator, Joyce Whyte-Chin said in her report said the programme began in March and was scheduled to be concluded in April but was delayed due to unforeseen circumstances.
The programme started out with 22 participants but four did not complete the programme, Whyte-Chin said. She also said that the group had difficulties with facilities, lecturers and materials but was able to overcome them.
The programme offered theoretical and practical training and is accredited by the University of Guyana.
Meanwhile, giving the charge to the graduates, Minister within the Ministry of Health Dr Bheri Ramsarran told the group, “You are small little angels in a bigger cosmic development that is unfolding in Guyana.” He told them that they are change agents in the changing landscape of the health sector and part of a comprehensive team that is missing from the various health facilities government has constructed. “I congratulate you and tell you that this is a special moment for the Ministry of Health,” Ramsarran told the graduates.
Director of Health Sciences Division Medic Noel Holder reminded the new laboratory technicians to “tread with caution” and “protect the integrity of the Ministry of Health”.
Meanwhile, special awards went to Lakeram Sahadeo who was the Best Male Graduate and Overall Graduating Student. Best Female Graduate was Samantha Noel and Keno Andrews received a trophy for Most Academically Improved.