Program Background

The SDA College Laboratory Assistant Program addresses the growing demand for qualified laboratory professionals in The Gambia’s healthcare sector. It supports the National Development Plan and the Ministry of Higher Education’s TVET framework. The program blends theoretical instruction with hands-on training and clinical rotations, producing graduates capable of contributing to diagnostic services, research, and quality laboratory operations.

Program Objectives

• Provide foundational scientific knowledge and laboratory skills for diagnostic and public health practice.
• Prepare students to perform routine laboratory procedures safely, accurately, and ethically.
• Develop professional competencies in laboratory data management, communication, and teamwork.
• Promote adherence to biosafety, quality assurance, and ethical standards in laboratory operations.
• Support national healthcare goals through competent laboratory support staff.
• Encourage professional growth and lifelong learning in medical laboratory science.

Semester 1 Overview

Duration: 12 Weeks Theory + 6 Weeks Practical
Schedule: 3 Days/Week | 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM (1-Hour Lunch)

Module 1 – Introduction to Laboratory Science & Ethics

Objective: Introduce students to laboratory structure, ethics, and safety.

• Understand laboratory organization, roles, and safety rules.
• Identify and use basic laboratory equipment correctly.
• Apply confidentiality and professional ethics in practice.

Module 2 – Hematology

• Learn blood composition and function.
• Perform hematological procedures and differential counts.
• Record and report results accurately.

Module 3 – Clinical Chemistry

• Perform biochemical assays (glucose, urea, protein).
• Handle reagents and instruments safely.
• Interpret and document results correctly.

Module 4 – Microbiology & Parasitology

• Apply aseptic techniques and diagnostic microscopy.
• Identify microorganisms and parasites in clinical samples.
• Communicate laboratory results effectively.

Practical Block (Weeks 13–18)

Students apply theoretical skills in hospital or diagnostic labs under supervision.

• Assessment: Attendance (10%), Supervisor Evaluation (20%), Logbook (20%), Practical Exam (50%)

Semester 2 Overview

Modules: Histopathology, Serology, Laboratory Management, Instrumentation

Module 5 – Histopathology & Cytology

Students learn tissue processing, staining, and microscopic analysis. Focus on fixation, embedding, and special stains.

Module 6 – Serology & Immunology

• Study immune reactions and diagnostic testing (ELISA, VDRL, HIV).
• Apply biosafety and quality control.

Module 7 – Laboratory Management & Quality Assurance

• Develop administrative and quality management skills.
• Conduct audits, manage inventory, and supervise personnel.

Module 8 – Instrumentation, Maintenance & Basic Research Methods

• Operate and maintain laboratory instruments.
• Design and execute basic research projects.

Practical Block 2 – Clinical Rotation (Weeks 13–18)

Students gain experience across histopathology, serology, and management units.

• Assessment: Attendance (10%), Supervisor Evaluation (20%), Logbook (20%), Practical Exam (50%)

Semester 3 Overview

Modules: Advanced Microbiology, Clinical Biochemistry, Public Health, Research Project

Module 9 – Advanced Microbiology & Parasitology

• Perform advanced microbial isolation and antibiotic sensitivity testing.
• Identify fungi and parasites through microscopy and culture.

Module 10 – Clinical Biochemistry & Endocrinology

• Study biochemical analysis for renal, hepatic, and endocrine disorders.
• Perform hormonal assays and analyze results using quality standards.

Module 11 – Public Health & Epidemiology

• Learn disease surveillance, outbreak investigation, and health data reporting.
• Support public health programs through laboratory evidence.

Module 12 – Laboratory Professional Practice & Research Project

• Develop ethical research proposals and data collection tools.
• Present findings using ICT and professional communication.

Final Practical Block – Comprehensive Rotation (Weeks 13–18)

Students integrate theoretical and practical competencies through supervised clinical and research placements.

• Assessment: Supervisor Evaluation, Logbook, Practical Exam

Program Completion & Certification

Upon successful completion of all three semesters and practical rotations, students are awarded the Laboratory Assistant Certificate by SDA College. Graduates are equipped for employment in diagnostic, public health, and research laboratories across The Gambia and beyond.