SASA, DAVAO CITY — In an endeavor to empower the next generation of medical technologists with a comprehensive repertoire of theoretical knowledge and practical skills, the Medical Technology Program of Jose Maria College Foundation, Inc. (JMCFI) recently organized a remarkable week-long Skills Enhancement Program (SEP) on campus from January 9 to 13, 2022. The immersive learning experience offered during the program exemplifies JMCFI’s unwavering dedication to excellence. Furthermore, it served as a significant milestone demonstrating JMCFI’s commitment to providing quality education and nurturing the skills of future medical technologists in the institution.
This momentous event, attended by second and third-year MedTech students, unfolded as an enthralling journey, enriching the practical knowledge and enhancing the technical skills of aspiring medical professionals. This was achieved through theoretical lectures, practical demonstrations, and hands-on laboratory exercises in the specialized areas of Hematology, Parasitology, and Bacteriology, each day dedicated to a specific field. Under the guidance of adept medical technology professionals and instructors, these students embarked on a quest to strengthen their understanding of the intricacies of these vital fields, emphasizing bridging the gap between theory and practice.
Ms. Queen Jane M. Bacon, RMT, MSMT, CSMS, the Head of the Medical Technology Program and the visionary behind this empowering initiative, took the lead in the orientation for the event and shared numerous noteworthy and substantial insights relevant to the course of activities. She actively encouraged every participant to feel free to ask their queries and seek assistance throughout the event. Moreover, she emphasized the significance of ethical considerations, maintaining a presence of mind during laboratory procedures, and promoting a spirit of camaraderie among the participants, enabling students to engage in collaborative learning and benefit from each other’s experiences.
Kicking off the event on the first day, it began by focusing on Hematology, a vital field of medical technology that delves into the study of blood and its disorders. This introductory session was led by the distinguished faculty member of the program, Mr. Archie F. Anadon, RMT, MSMTc, who provided a comprehensive lecture overview. The students reviewed their understanding of blood analysis, including the morphology of red and white blood cells, while gaining valuable insights into the complexities of hematology. The students had put into practice the knowledge they had recently gained through practical demonstrations, engaging in activities such as blood collection through venipuncture and capillary puncture.
On day two, the focus shifted toward the fascinating field of Parasitology, an integral aspect of medical technology that involves identifying and studying parasites and their impact on human health. Ms. Bacon provided a brief overview of the course, and then the students were given hands-on activities that allowed them to immerse themselves in evaluating stool samples and fecalysis. They were introduced to various macroscopic and concentration techniques, including the kato-katz and direct fecal smear. These techniques equipped the students with valuable skills in preparing laboratory samples for microscopy, a crucial aspect of parasite diagnosis.
Finally, on the last day, Bacteriology provided an in-depth understanding of bacteria and their role in infectious diseases. Ms. Alexes Joy D. Davila, RMT, the newest esteemed faculty member of the program, introduced and demonstrated the fundamentals of bacteriology, including the principles of microbial growth, isolation, and identification techniques. The participants enthusiastically engaged in laboratory exercises, immersing themselves in a world of Petri dishes and agar plates, such as preparing culture media and performing isolation techniques. Ms. Davila emphasized the importance of proper sterilization techniques and biosafety protocols, ensuring the students’ competency in handling potentially hazardous microorganisms.
Upon the culmination of the three-day program, the participants expressed heartfelt gratitude for their fruitful experience. They emphasized how the program expanded their horizons and provided practical skills that will benefit them in their future careers as medical technologists. One participant, Ms. Katherine Mae II G. Dumamba, a second-year MedTech student, shared her experience, stating, “The 3-day Skills Enhancement Program is a beneficial program where future MedTechs can enhance the skills they are taught in their classes… a chance for them to learn future skills that will be taught in their coming years as students. Indeed, it is a great opportunity for those who want to gain more experience, practice, and refine their skills.”
Ultimately, the success of the 3-Day Skills Enhancement Program hosted by the Medical Technology Program of Jose Maria College Foundation, Inc. is a testament to the institution’s commitment to providing its students with exceptional learning opportunities. With its state-of-the-art facilities and experienced faculty, the MedTech Program of JMCFI continues to empower students to become competent and compassionate healthcare professionals. The knowledge gained, the skills honed, and the passion ignited during this event will undoubtedly shape the future of medical technology as its impact extends far beyond the walls of the academe. Hence, the program is gearing up as more aspiring medical technologists look forward to participating in their following skills enhancement program.
Lord Vincent Van Mendoza
PublicistVince is the student publication adviser of The JMarian. His journalism experience includes being a student writer, an associate editor, and a chief editor in his collegiate publication. He is a licensed professional teacher (LPT), Davao event host and spinner, digital marketing specialist, trainer, keynote speaker, and writer. He is digitally known as the 'Digital Lourd' of Davao city, Philippines.
