Email / Phone: sasa@bolgatu.edu.gh | +233 24 422 9324
Welcome to the Department of Medical Laboratory Science
Training skilled laboratory professionals to support healthcare through accurate diagnosis and scientific research.
The Department of Medical Laboratory Technology is among the newly established
Departments in the University and is focused on providing entrepreneurial skills
and high-quality practical laboratory training for students, especially in tropical
and zoonotic diseases. The Department runs both Bachelor of Technology
(2-Year Top-up & 4-Year Degree) and Higher National Diploma programmes
Mr. Charles Badiwon
HOD Medical Laboratory Science
Mr. Charles Badiwon
Assistant Lecturer/HoD
Educational Qualifications
- Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Clinical Microbiology – Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), Kumasi, Ashanti Region, 2019–Present
- Master of Philosophy (MPhil) in Clinical Microbiology – Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), Kumasi, Ashanti Region, 2012–2014
- BSc in Medical Laboratory Technology – Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), Kumasi, Ashanti Region, 2008–2011
- Diploma in Medical Laboratory Technology – School of Allied Health Sciences, University of Ghana, Korle-Bu, Accra, 2006–2007
- Certificate in Medical Laboratory Technology – School of Medical Laboratory Technology, Korle-Bu, Accra, 2001–2004
- Advanced Level Certificate in Physics, Chemistry, Biology and General Paper – Adisadel College, Cape Coast, 1994–1996
- Ordinary Level Certificate – Notre Dame Minor Seminary Secondary School, Navrongo, 1989–1994
Areas of Expertise
- Class Management
- Examination Preparation
- Career Guidance
- Field Research and Publication
- Data Analysis and Handling
- Advocacy
- Student Supervision
- Budgetary Control
- Programme Planning and Evaluation
- Monitoring and Evaluation
- Clinical Microbiology
- Vectors and Epidemiology
- Immunology
- Haematology
Brief Biography
Badiwon Charles is an Assistant Lecturer and Acting Head of the Department of Medical Laboratory Technology at Bolgatanga Technical University. He is an enthusiastic professional with extensive experience in teaching, medical laboratory practice, research, and programme management. He takes pride in effective planning and delivery in accordance with professional ethics and standard operating procedures.
He holds a Certificate and Diploma in Medical Laboratory Technology, a BSc in Medical Laboratory Technology, and an MPhil in Clinical Microbiology. He is currently pursuing a PhD in Clinical Microbiology at Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), Kumasi.
Badiwon Charles has been lecturing at Bolgatanga Technical University since October 1, 2021. He has supervised numerous Higher National Diploma (HND) and Bachelor of Science (BSc) student project works and has served on diverse committees within the institution. He is currently the Acting Head of the Department of Medical Laboratory Technology.
As a researcher, his interests include clinical microbiology, vectors and epidemiology, immunology, and haematology. He has participated in several professional training programmes, including refresher training in malaria diagnostics and external competency assessment in malaria microscopy organized by the National Malaria Control Programme in Sunyani. He has also participated in capacity-building programmes for Physician Assistants and Biomedical Scientists in Kintampo, Sysmex General Customers Training on the KX-21N in Kumasi, and Quality Assurance in Tuberculosis Microscopy at Korle-Bu, Accra.
His professional work includes promoting and safeguarding public health through effective laboratory practices, research, advocacy, and collaboration with health-sector institutions and programmes.
Selected Publications
- Badiwon, C., Singh, B., Feglo, P., Mubarik, Y., Ntiamoah, P., Owusu, E. A., Awugah, S. A., & Singh, S. (2025). Immunological and haematological profiles of pulmonary tuberculosis patients in the Ahafo Region. Egyptian Academic Journal of Biological Sciences. C, Physiology and Molecular Biology, 17(1), 141–152.
- Badiwon, C., Singh, B., Ayimbire, A., Feglo, P., Mubarik, Y., & Singh, S. (2025). Haematological and Inflammatory-Associated Cytokine Profiles of Gastrointestinal Parasite-Infected Individuals in the Ahafo Region of Ghana. Egyptian Academic Journal of Biological Sciences, G. Microbiology, 17(1), 203–216.
- Halidu, M. A., Ayimbire, A., Badiwon, C., Abeba, T., & John, H. E. (2024). Effect of synthetic and organic insecticide on chemical composition and in-vitro gas production of cowpea haulms. Science and Development, 9(1), 42–55. ISSN: 2821-9007 (Online).
Notable Achievements
- Established strong partnerships and collaborative relationships with colleagues, contributing to the implementation of effective departmental and professional activities.
- Collaborated effectively with the National Tuberculosis Programme in External Quality Assurance and the promotion of proper diagnostic procedures.
- Collaborated with and advocated through the National Malaria Control Programme to promote effective diagnosis, treatment, and monitoring.
- Introduced Culture and Sensitivity Testing of microorganisms and the use of Haematology and Chemistry Analysers at the Government Hospital, Atebubu.
- Introduced Culture and Sensitivity Testing of microorganisms at the Department of Medical Laboratory Technology, Bolgatanga Technical University.
Department of Medical Laboratory Technology
The Department of Medical Laboratory Technology at Bolgatanga Technical University provides career-focused education and practical training in medical laboratory science. The department runs the Bachelor of Science (BSc) in Medical Laboratory Science and the Higher National Diploma (HND) in Medical Laboratory Technology. These programmes are designed to produce competent medical laboratory professionals capable of contributing to the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of diseases, as well as research and public health.
The programmes provide students with knowledge and practical competencies across areas including Clinical Microbiology, Mycology, Parasitology, Bacteriology, Virology, Chemical Pathology, Haematology, Blood Transfusion Science, Histopathology, Histochemistry, Immunology, Cytogenetics, Public Health and Epidemiology, Forensic Science, Molecular Diagnostics, and Laboratory Management.
Vision
To be a leading academic department in medical laboratory sciences, fostering excellence in education, strengthening and improving teaching, learning, research, and community service, as well as international and stakeholder collaboration, particularly with industry and other universities, while producing competent and innovative professionals who contribute to improved healthcare outcomes.
Mission
To provide career-focused and skills-based education, conduct innovative research, apply state-of-the-art laboratories for practical training and entrepreneurship development in a conducive environment, and improve resource mobilisation and utilisation.
Goal
To produce highly competent Medical Laboratory professionals through innovative education, research, and practical training that enhance healthcare outcomes and advance laboratory medicine, while focusing on student enrolment, diversity, quality, equity, and the improvement of infrastructure and services for teaching and research.
Objectives
- Train students in Medical Laboratory Science to acquire the knowledge and skills required to perform various laboratory tests on biological specimens with precision.
- Train students to acquire professional and ethical competencies to ensure responsible health service delivery.
- Equip students with the capacity to conduct basic research to enhance their technical and critical thinking skills for addressing evolving health problems.
- Train students to acquire entrepreneurial competencies for self-employment.
Programmes Under the Department
- Bachelor of Science (BSc) in Medical Laboratory Science – A four-year full-time programme under the School of Applied Science and Arts, Department of Medical Laboratory Technology, Bolgatanga Technical University, Sumbrungu Campus, Bolgatanga, Upper East Region.
- Higher National Diploma (HND) in Medical Laboratory Technology – A three-year programme under the School of Applied Science and Arts, Department of Medical Laboratory Technology, Bolgatanga Technical University, Sumbrungu Campus, Bolgatanga, Upper East Region.
Collaborations
- Ghana Health Service (GHS) – Upper East Regional Hospital, Bolgatanga, and Navrongo Health Research Centre (NHRC)
- Allied Health Professions Council (AHPC)
- Ministry of Health (MoH)
Dr. Martin Awe Akilla
Lecturer
Educational Qualifications
- PhD in Chemical Pathology – University for Development Studies (UDS), Tamale, Ghana, 2018–2024
- Doctor of Medical Laboratory Science (MLS.D) – University for Development Studies (UDS), Tamale, Ghana, 2016
- MPhil in Chemical Pathology – Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), Kumasi, Ghana, 2015
- BSc in Medical Laboratory Technology – Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), Kumasi, Ghana, 2011
- Certificate in Leadership and Health Management – University of Washington, Department of Global Health, USA, 2018
- Foundation Fellow – West African Postgraduate College of Medical Laboratory Science (WAPCMLS), 2020
Areas of Expertise
- Chemical Pathology
- Reproductive Health
- Metabolic Disorders
- Molecular Biology
- Haematology
- Laboratory Management
- Oxidative Stress
- Toxicology
- Non-Communicable Diseases
- Global Health
- Clinical Chemistry
Brief Biography
Dr. Martin Awe Akilla is a Consultant Chemical Pathologist, Research Scientist, and Educator with over two decades of experience in medical science, laboratory medicine, research, and education. His principal area of expertise is Chemical Pathology, with particular interests in reproductive health and metabolic disorders, complemented by expertise in molecular biology, haematology, and laboratory management.
Dr. Akilla holds a PhD in Chemical Pathology and a Doctor of Medical Laboratory Science (MLS.D) from the University for Development Studies (UDS), as well as an MPhil in Chemical Pathology and a BSc in Medical Laboratory Technology from the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST). He also holds a Certificate in Leadership and Health Management from the University of Washington, Department of Global Health.
As a registered professional with the Allied Health Professions Council of Ghana, Dr. Akilla has extensive experience in establishing medical laboratories, developing Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), and contributing to laboratory quality and excellence in both public and private healthcare settings under the Ministry of Health.
Dr. Akilla is an educator and faculty member in Clinical Chemistry at the West African Postgraduate College of Medical Laboratory Science (WAPCMLS) and also serves as a part-time lecturer at the University for Development Studies, Tamale, Ghana. Through teaching and mentorship, he contributes to the professional development of the next generation of medical laboratory scientists.
His research interests include reproductive health, oxidative stress, toxicology, non-communicable diseases, and global health. His research has resulted in peer-reviewed publications in journals including PLoS ONE, Health Science Reports, and Trends in Medical Research. His work focuses on addressing important health challenges and improving healthcare outcomes through collaborative research and knowledge dissemination.
Professional Achievements
- Fellow, Ghana Association of Medical Laboratory Scientists (FGAMLS)
- Foundation Fellow, West African Postgraduate College of Medical Laboratory Science (FWAPCMLS)
- Best Graduating Student in Pharmacology, 2014–2016 Doctor of Medical Laboratory Science Class, University for Development Studies, Tamale
Selected Publications
- Ngala, R. A., Awe, M. A., & Nsiah, P. (2018). The effects of plasma chromium on lipid profile, glucose metabolism, and cardiovascular risk in type 2 diabetes mellitus: A case-control study. PLoS ONE.
- Banyeh, S. B. B. G. A., Akilla, M. A., Adams, Y., & Dapare, P. P. M. (2021). Neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio versus monocyte to lymphocyte ratio in predicting hypertensive diseases of pregnancy. Annals of Medical Laboratory Science.
- Akilla, M. A., Awinibuno, I. A. N., Banyeh, M., et al. (2024). Investigating hemolysis, elevated liver enzymes, and low platelet count in preeclampsia: A case-control study in Ghana. Health Science Reports.
- Akilla, M. A., Banyeh, M., & Awinibuno, I. A. N. (2023). Interactions between sex and the age at disease onset on cardiometabolic risk factors in type 2 diabetes mellitus: A cross-sectional study. Health Science Reports.
Peer Reviewer
- BP International
- Asian Research Journal of Gynaecology and Obstetrics
Global Contribution
Dr. Akilla actively contributes to collaborative research and knowledge dissemination aimed at addressing pressing global health challenges, particularly in the area of non-communicable diseases. His academic, research, and professional activities reflect his commitment to academic excellence, innovative research, and the advancement of medical laboratory science globally.
Professional Affiliations and Credentials
Dr. Martin Awe Akilla holds the professional credentials BSc., LMH (UW), MPhil., MLS.D, PhD, FGAMLS, and FWAPCMLS.
Mr. Charles A. Derigubah
Lecturer
Educational Qualifications
- PhD in Haematology – Ebonyi State University, Nigeria (Candidate)
- MPhil in Haematology – Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), February 2021
- BSc in Medical Laboratory Science
Areas of Expertise
- Haematology
- Coagulation
- Red Cell Disorders
- Haematological Diagnosis
Brief Biography
Charles Angnataa Derigubah is a Lecturer in the Medical Laboratory Science Department at Bolgatanga Technical University. He is currently a PhD candidate at Ebonyi State University, Nigeria, and holds a Master of Philosophy (MPhil) degree in Haematology from Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), obtained in February 2021.
Mr. Derigubah previously served as a Medical Laboratory Scientist at the Tamale Teaching Hospital from March 2013 to September 2021, where he progressed through the ranks to become a Principal Scientist. During his professional career, he has actively participated in several scientific studies and collaborated with researchers and colleagues from institutions across Ghana.
His research interests focus on coagulation, red cell disorders, and haematological diagnosis. His research experience encompasses studies involving coagulation and fibrinolytic biomarkers, sickle cell anaemia, inflammation, malaria-associated anaemia, and haematological biomarkers.
Selected Publications
- Derigubah, C. A., Nkansah, C., Mensah, K., Appiah, S. K., Osei-Boakye, F., Odame, E., ... & Addai-Mensah, O. (2023). Plasma levels of fibrinolytic and coagulation biomarkers in HIV-infected individuals on highly active antiretroviral therapy: A case-control study in a Northern Ghanaian population. Health Science Reports, 6(7), e1436.
- Appiah, S. K., Nkansah, C., Abbam, G., Osei-Boakye, F., Daud, S., Derigubah, C. A., ... & Chukwurah, E. F. (2024). Effect of Hydroxyurea Therapy on Markers of Inflammation and Clinical Variability of Sickle Cell Anaemia; A Prospective Study at a Missionary Hospital. African Journal of Laboratory Haematology and Transfusion Science, 3(3), 214–226.
- Nkansah, C., Appiah, S. K., Osei-Boakye, F., Appiah-Kubi, E., Abbam, G., Daud, S., ... & Usanga, V. U. (2025). Plasma Soluble Progenitor Cell Receptors as Biomarkers for Severe Anemia Among Malaria-Infected Pediatrics: A Prospective Study in Ghana. Health Science Reports, 8(2), e70460.
Mr. Moses A. Abambire
Assistant Lecturer
Educational Qualifications
- MPhil Haematology – Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), Ghana
- BSc Biochemistry – Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), Ghana
Areas of Expertise
- Haematology
- Biochemistry
- Chemical Pathology
- Medical Laboratory Science
- Infection Control
Brief Biography
Moses Abambire is an Assistant Lecturer in the Medical Laboratory Department at Bolgatanga Technical University. He began his early education at Victory and continued at Mount Sinai in Bolgatanga. He subsequently attended St. Francis Xavier in Wa for his secondary education.
He obtained his first degree in Biochemistry from Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), followed by an MPhil in Haematology from the same institution.
Moses Abambire began his professional career as a Quality Control Analyst at M&G Pharmaceuticals before transitioning to work as a Medical Laboratory Scientist at Nandom Hospital. During his over eight years at the hospital, he progressed to the position of Principal Medical Laboratory Scientist and played an important role in the hospital's operations.
He served as the Lead Focal Person in the fight against COVID-19 and received a state award in recognition of his contribution during the pandemic. He was also actively involved in infection control initiatives within the hospital.
In addition to his healthcare experience, Moses has contributed to education through teaching at Eremon Senior High, Zamse Technical School, and Victory Child International. His professional experience in medical laboratory science and education reflects his commitment to healthcare, research, teaching, and community development.
Ongoing Research Projects
- Prevalence of Helicobacter pylori cagA Positivity and Haematological Indices among Dyspeptic Patients.
- Predicting the Likelihood of Postpartum Hemorrhage among Pregnant Women in Ghanaian Population: Roles of Coagulation and Fibrinolytic Markers during Prenatal Period.
- Factors Associated with Recurrent Pregnancy Loss among Women at the Maternal and Child Health Hospital, Kumasi, Ghana.
Mr. Abubakari Abdul- Ganiyu
Chief Technician
Educational Qualifications
- MBA in Total Quality Management System – University of Professional Studies, Ghana, 2019
- BSc in Biochemistry – Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), Kumasi, Ghana, 2011
Areas of Expertise
- Quality Management System
- External and Internal Auditing
- Lean and Six Sigma Techniques
- Laboratory Quality Management Techniques
- Quality Assurance and Quality Control
- Process Improvement
- Kaizen Methodology
- Root Cause Analysis and Corrective Action
- Laboratory Quality and System Audits
Brief Biography
Mr. Abubakari Abdul-Ganiyu is a Chief Technician in the Medical Laboratory Science Department at Bolgatanga Technical University. He is a Certified Lean Six Sigma Green Belt with in-depth experience in the implementation of Quality Management Systems and system auditing, particularly within medical laboratory settings.
Mr. Abubakari is knowledgeable in Lean Enterprise and Six Sigma, Kaizen methodology, Root Cause Analysis and Corrective Action, Quality Assurance, System Audits, and Laboratory Quality Management. His professional expertise includes the implementation and maintenance of international quality standards, including ISO 9001 and ISO 15189.
He has trained laboratory professionals and supported the implementation of international quality standards in medical laboratories across various regions of Ghana. His work has contributed to strengthening laboratory quality systems, improving processes, and promoting quality assurance and control practices.
Selected Publications
- Effect of Wet Season on Growth and Haematology of Djallonke Sheep. Nigerian Journal of Animal Science, 2022, 24(2), 245–250.
Notable Achievements
- Implementation of Quality Management System at Upper East Regional Hospital Laboratory, Bolgatanga, as a mentor (Quality Officer), supporting the laboratory in progressing from a Zero STAR rating to a Four STAR Certified Rating by the African Society for Laboratory Medicine.
- Implementation of Quality Management System and Specimen Referral Systems in selected district hospital facilities across the three northern regions of Ghana as a Project (Quality) Manager.
Ongoing Research Project
- Assessment of Internal Quality Control Compliance in Glucose Point-of-Care Testing in Resource-Limited Settings.
Ursula Amissah
Senior Instructor
Educational Qualifications
- Diploma in Basic Life Support
- Certificate in Project Management in Global Health – University of Washington
- BTech in Medical Laboratory Technology – Accra Technical University
- HND in Science Laboratory Technology
- MPhil in Microbiology – Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), Kumasi, Ghana (In Progress)
Areas of Expertise
- Medical Laboratory Science
- Phlebotomy
- Haematology
- Parasitology
- Laboratory Management
- Biopsy Sampling
- IV Cannulation
- Team Coordination
- Health Education
Brief Biography
Amissah Ursula is a Senior Instructor in the Medical Laboratory Science Department at Bolgatanga Technical University. She is a dedicated Laboratory Scientist with a strong background in medical laboratory science and hands-on experience across clinical, laboratory, and academic settings.
Her academic journey began at Opoku Ware Basic School, followed by Kumasi Girls Senior High School. She subsequently pursued an HND in Science Laboratory Technology and a BTech in Medical Laboratory Technology at Accra Technical University. She has further enhanced her professional knowledge through a Certificate in Project Management in Global Health from the University of Washington and Basic Life Support training at Bolgatanga Regional Hospital.
Ursula is currently pursuing an MPhil in Microbiology at Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), Kumasi, Ghana, with an interest in contributing to efforts to combat infectious diseases in Ghana.
Her professional career began as a science teacher at Beit-Or International School. She subsequently worked in clinical roles at Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital and the AngloGold Ashanti Health Foundation. She later joined Akrokerri College of Education, where she played a pivotal role in managing the science laboratory unit and contributed significantly to enhancing student engagement in science education.
Ursula has developed a diverse skill set encompassing biopsy sampling, IV cannulation, phlebotomy, team coordination, laboratory management, and health education. She is known for her attention to detail, confidence, and ability to work effectively both independently and collaboratively. She is fluent in English, Twi, and Fante, and is currently undertaking Spanish language training. Her multidisciplinary experience in teaching, clinical practice, and laboratory science informs her approach to professional and academic work.
Raymond Adocta Bukari
Raymond Adocta Bukari
Educational Qualifications
- MPhil in Molecular Medicine and Biochemistry – University for Development Studies (UDS) (Candidate)
- Master of Education (M.Ed) – University of Cape Coast (UCC), 2025
- Doctor of Medical Laboratory Science (MLS.D) – University for Development Studies (UDS), 2021
- BSc in Biological Science – University for Development Studies (UDS), 2015
- Diploma in Medical Laboratory Technology (Top-Up) – Korle Bu, 2010
Areas of Expertise
- Medical Laboratory Science
- Molecular Diagnostics
- Medical Biochemistry
- Malaria Diagnostics
- Anaemia Assessment
- Infectious Disease Epidemiology
- Biomedical Research
- Health Education
Brief Biography
Bukari Adocta Raymond is a Senior Instructor in Medical Laboratory Science with over two decades of experience in medical laboratory science, health education, and biomedical research. He holds a Doctor of Medical Laboratory Science (MLS.D) and a Bachelor of Science in Biological Science from the University for Development Studies (UDS). He is currently pursuing an MPhil in Molecular Medicine and Biochemistry at UDS and holds a Master of Education (M.Ed) from the University of Cape Coast.
Mr. Raymond began his professional career as a Medical Laboratory Technician with the Ghana Health Service in 2004 and transitioned to the role of Medical Laboratory Scientist in 2016. He has also served as a Health Tutor at a Nursing Training College, contributing to health education and the development of healthcare professionals.
He is actively involved in biomedical research, with particular interests in malaria diagnostics, anaemia assessment, infectious disease epidemiology, and molecular diagnostics. His research experience includes significant contributions to the Millennium Villages Project in collaboration with SADA and the Ghana Antimalarial Therapeutic Efficacy Studies conducted in collaboration with the Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research (NMIMR) and the Ghana Health Service (GHS).
His academic and research work has also included studies on bacterial meningitis and cervical cancer prevalence in the Upper East Region. With a strong passion for health education and research, Mr. Raymond combines technical expertise with a commitment to improving healthcare outcomes and advancing science education in Ghana.
Ongoing Research Projects
- Prevalence of Cervical Cancer.
- Association between HPV, Preneoplastic Lesions and Cervical Cancer.
mc@bolgatu.edu.gh
Phone
+23302656666945
Location
Library Complex