Fellowship Training Programme
Faculty of Histopathology
Overview
The Faculty of Histopathology produces specialist medical laboratory scientists in tissue processing, cellular analysis, and histological techniques. Its sub-specialties span anatomical techniques, applied histology, tumour markers, tissue culture, cytology, and pathology — providing the laboratory backbone for cancer diagnosis and surgical pathology services.
Histopathology
Histopathology is the laboratory discipline concerned with the preparation, sectioning, staining, and examination of tissue specimens for pathological diagnosis. Trainees develop expertise across the full workflow from specimen reception to specialised staining, immunohistochemistry, and quality assurance — skills fundamental to cancer diagnosis, surgical pathology, and autopsy services.
Scope of Training
Tissue processing and embedding, microtomy, routine and special staining, immunohistochemistry, cytological preparation, frozen sections, and museum specimen preparation.
Anatomical Techniques
Mastery of tissue fixation, processing, embedding, and microtomy — the foundational technical skills that underpin all histopathological diagnosis. Fellows ensure specimen integrity from the operating theatre to the microscope slide.
Core Competencies
- Tissue fixation protocols and troubleshooting
- Automated and manual tissue processing
- Paraffin embedding and orientation techniques
- Microtomy and section quality optimisation
Applied Histology
Application of routine and special histological staining techniques to demonstrate specific tissue components, microorganisms, and pathological deposits. Fellows become experts in staining chemistry and technique selection.
Core Competencies
- H&E staining standardisation
- Special stains (PAS, Masson trichrome, Ziehl-Neelsen, silver stains)
- Staining quality control and troubleshooting
- Digital pathology and image analysis
Tumor Markers
Immunohistochemical and molecular detection of tumour-associated antigens and biomarkers. This sub-specialty equips fellows to support oncological diagnosis, prognostication, and therapeutic target identification.
Core Competencies
- Immunohistochemistry technique and interpretation
- Tumour marker panel selection (ER, PR, HER2, Ki-67)
- In-situ hybridisation techniques (FISH, CISH)
- Molecular pathology for targeted therapy
Tissue Culture and Museum Techniques
Preparation and maintenance of tissue cultures for research and diagnostic purposes, alongside museum specimen preparation for teaching and archival collections.
Core Competencies
- Primary tissue culture establishment
- Cell viability and growth assessment
- Museum specimen mounting and preservation
- Gross specimen photography and documentation
Cytology
Preparation and microscopic examination of cellular specimens from body fluids, fine needle aspirates, and cervical smears for the detection of malignancy, infection, and inflammatory conditions.
Core Competencies
- Cervical cytology screening (Pap smear)
- Fine needle aspiration cytology preparation
- Body fluid cytology processing
- Liquid-based cytology techniques
Pathology
Integration of histological, cytological, and clinical data for comprehensive pathological diagnosis. Fellows develop skills in grossing, frozen section interpretation, and autopsy pathology.
Core Competencies
- Surgical specimen grossing and sampling
- Frozen section preparation and rapid reporting
- Autopsy techniques and cause-of-death determination
- Clinicopathological correlation and reporting
Training Structure
The WAPCMLS Fellowship Training Programme is structured into three progressive stages spanning five (5) years.
Primary Examination
A qualifying assessment serving as the prerequisite for entry into Part I (Junior Residency).
Part I — Junior Residency Programme
A two-year structured training programme at an accredited training centre, covering the core specialty areas of the faculty.
Membership Certification (MWAPCMLS)
Upon successful completion of Part I, candidates are awarded the Membership of the College, which qualifies them for entry into Part II (Senior Residency). Members may also enter practice and return later to continue.
Part II — Senior Residency Programme
A three-year advanced training in a chosen sub-specialty, including research, dissertation work, and advanced written and practical examinations.
Fellowship Certification (FWAPCMLS)
Upon passing the Part II examinations and successful dissertation defence, candidates are awarded the Fellowship of the College and invested at the annual ceremony.
Entry Requirements
GENERAL REQUIREMENT
- BMLS, B.Sc, AIMLS, or MLSD qualification
- Fully registered and licensed Medical Laboratory Scientist
Minimum post qualification experience
- BMLS/BSc MLS holders: 4 years
- MLSD holders: 2 years
- Applicants with accredited M.Sc. qualifications may obtain exemption from the Primary Fellowship examination.
- Enrollment in a College accredited institution or hospital is required for Part I and Part II Fellowship training.
Curriculum
Curriculum details will be published here.
Faculty Members
Dr Ahmed A. Mashud, PhD, FWAPCMLS
Faculty Chairman
Dr. Ahmed A. Mashud serves as Chairman of the Faculty of Histopathology at the West African Postgraduate College of Medical Laboratory Science (WAPCMLS). He is a distinguished histopathology and laboratory medicine professional from Ghana with experience in diagnostic pathology, medical laboratory practice, and postgraduate professional training. Dr. Mashud has contributed to the advancement of histopathology education and specialist laboratory training within the West African region through mentorship, academic leadership, and professional service.
Prof Maximin Senou, PhD, FWAPCMLS
Training Cordinator
Prof. Senou Maximin serves as Training Coordinator for the Faculty of Histopathology. He supports the organization and coordination of postgraduate training, faculty academic programs, and professional development activities within the College. He also plays an active role in laboratory science education and regional academic collaboration.
Accredited Training Centres
Accredited training centres will be listed here.
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