Medical Laboratory Academic and Service Directorate

About Us

The Medical Laboratory Academic and Service Directorate at Hawassa University has evolved significantly since its establishment in 1996. Initially founded in Dilla with limited staff and resources, it expanded its training programs over time, training students in special, diploma, extension, post-basic, regular BSc, and master’s programs—totalling more than 1,600 graduates. After relocating to Hawassa, the directorate broadened its academic scope to include multiple masters’ programs (Medical Microbiology, Medical Parasitology, and Clinical Laboratory Science: Specialty Track in Diagnostic & Public Health Microbiology) and is currently working toward launching a PhD program in Medical Microbiology. 

The academic wing now delivers comprehensive theoretical and practical training supported by qualified staff, including lecturers, assistant professors, and associate professors with diverse specializations. It also integrates teaching with research and community service through outreach programs, health campaigns, and problem-solving research initiatives.

In parallel, the hospital laboratory wing provides extensive diagnostic and support services essential for patient care, disease detection, and public health surveillance. There are 69 staff in the hospital wing providing accurate, timely, and reliable diagnostic results that guide clinical decision-making, support disease prevention and treatment, and ensure quality patient care within the hospital. 

These include clinical chemistry, haematology, microbiology and parasitology, transfusion services, and advanced molecular diagnostics such as GeneXpert and HIV viral load testing. The laboratory also functions as an AMR surveillance site and serves as a practical training center for students, reinforcing hands-on learning and skill development. With strong staffing capacity in both academic and hospital wings, the fully integrated directorate works harmoniously to deliver high-quality education, reliable laboratory services, and impactful community engagement—ultimately contributing to improved health outcomes and national development.