The complexity and nature of the pathology industry demand highly skilled personnel for specialised diagnostic services.

Over the years, the Namibia Institute of Pathology (NIP) spent N$4 million per medical student for specialisation.

NIP's Chief Executive Officer, Kapena Tjombonde, made the remarks during her address at the Government Information Centre. 

Between 2016 and 2024, NIP supported eight medical doctors to specialise in South Africa at the University of Stellenbosch, University of the Free State, University of Pretoria, and University of the Witwatersrand, majoring in clinical pathology, hema-pathology, anatomical pathology, and virology. 

Of the eight doctors, four have completed their studies, while the remaining ones are still pursuing their respective courses. 

The last batch of doctors is expected to finish in 2029.

Through empowering staff, NIP further supported medical technologists, currently pursuing specialisation in cytotechnology and histotechnology at the University of Botswana. 

A cytotechnologist prepares, examines, and screens cells to identify abnormalities, while a histotechnologist works with human and animal tissues instead of cells.

This cohort is expected to finish by 2026 and 2027 and will continue with their employment at NIP. 

Two external employees have already completed their specialisation at the University of Botswana and are currently practising at NIP.

NIP is further making a significant impact in advancing pathological services across the country. 

The organisation now has labs in all fourteen regions catering to the pathology needs of community members.