HIGHER NATIONAL DIPLOMA (HND) IN CHEMISTRY/BIOCHEMISTRY
- BRIEF HISTORY OF SCIENCE LABORATORY TECHNOLOGY DEPARTMENT
Science Laboratory Technology (SLT) is a pioneer department in Akanu Ibiam Federal Polytechnic, Unwana. It was founded in October, 1981. At inception, the department was known as Department of Science and General Studies. In 1983, the department assumed its present name following a major restructuring.
The National Diploma (ND) was the foundation programme and indeed the forerunner of the five Higher National Diploma (HND) programmes.
The HND options offered in the department are; Biochemistry, Chemistry/Biochemistry, Chemistry, Biology/Microbiology, and Biochemistry/Microbiology. All these HND options and the National Diploma programme, as at today are fully accredited by the supervising body, the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE). The first batch of HND students graduated in the Biology/Microbiology option in the 1989/1990 academic year.
- QUALIFICATIONS REQUIRED TO GAIN ADMISSION INTO HIGHER NATIONAL DIPLOMA IN CHEMISTRY/BIOCHEMISTRY
Higher National Diploma (HND) Chemistry/Biochemistry
The minimum entry requirement into Higher National Diploma programme in Chemistry/Biochemistry is at least a lower credit level pass in National Diploma (ND) in Science Laboratory Technology and a minimum of twelve (12) months of supervised industrial experience.
In exceptional cases, ND diplomates with a pass (CGPA of 2.00 – 2.49) grade but has two or more years of cognate working experience (Industrial Experience) in the specific field may be considered for admission into the HND programme.
- BENEFITS OF STUDYING HIGHER NATIONAL DIPLOMA IN CHEMISTRY/BIOCHEMISTRY
Higher National Diploma (HND) in Chemistry/Biochemistry programme is designed to produce chemical and biochemical technologist capable of applying laboratory techniques to complement the work of scientist in industrial and laboratory biochemical analysis and production processes.
A diplomate of this programme should be able to carry out biochemical analysis in academic laboratories in education, food, beverage industries, biotech industries, drug industries and chemical industries and in research institutes. Carry out chemical analysis and quality control in industry (oil, food, brewing, detergent, textiles, etc.), hospitals, schools, colleges and research institutions. Assist in biochemical analysis and experiments in hospitals, schools, colleges and research institutes.
Prepare students for employment in related work such as sales, marketing, administration and management in the industries. Specifically, the programme offers;
- Practical Skills: The program often emphasize hands-on training, providing you with practical skills in laboratory techniques, data analysis, and experimental design, which are highly valued in various industries and research settings.
- Industry-Relevant Knowledge: The course is designed to align with industry needs, ensuring that you acquire relevant knowledge and skills that are directly applicable to careers in biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, healthcare, environmental science, and more.
- Employability: Completing this course in a Polytechnic enhances your employability by equipping you with specialized skills sought after by employers in fields such as biomedical research, clinical laboratories, quality control, and environmental monitoring.
- Internship Opportunities: The program often incorporate internships or work placements, providing valuable real-world experience and networking opportunities that can lead to job offers upon graduation.
- Career Advancement: The course can serve as a stepping stone for further education and career advancement, including pursuing higher degrees such as Bachelor’s or Master’s degrees, or professional certifications in related specialized areas.
- Entrepreneurial Opportunities: The program foster an entrepreneurial mind-set by encouraging innovation and problem-solving skills, empowering you to explore entrepreneurial ventures in areas such as biotechnology start-ups, environmental consulting, or healthcare services.
- Specialized Training: Polytechnic institutions often offer specialized training in niche areas of chemistry/biochemistry, allowing you to focus on specific fields of interest such as medical laboratory technology, Biotechnology, food biochemistry, medical biochemistry, industrial chemistry, environmental chemistry, food chemistry etc, which can lead to specialized career opportunities.
- Career Diversity: The skills and knowledge gained from the course open doors to diverse career paths, including laboratory technician, research assistant, quality control analyst, environmental health officer, biomedical technologist, and more.
- HEADS OF SCIENCE LABORATORY TECHNOLOGY DEPARTMENT FROM INCEPTION TILL DATE
- Late Sir, G. I. Amasiatu
- George Ina
- Late Prof. Cyprian Emeluwa Okoli
- Late Sir, Ogburubi Ibe-Uro
- V. N. Nwachukwu
- C. C. Njoku
- M. C. Okafor
- A. A. Esonwune
- Mrs. S. N. Ezem
- D. O. Uchendu