Training Needs Assessment for Malaria Microscopy Technicians in Tertiary Institutions in Ogun State

Sustained investment in the competency of malaria microscopy technicians is essential for maintaining diagnostic quality in tertiary health institutions, particularly as resource constraints affect training continuity in Southwest Nigeria. This study conducted a training needs assessment for malaria microscopy technicians in tertiary health institutions in Ogun State, Southwest Nigeria. A validated training needs assessment instrument adapted from the WHO-FIND competency framework was administered to 60 laboratory technicians across five tertiary institutions. The tool assessed current skill levels across seven microscopy competency domains, self-reported training deficiencies, and preferred training modalities. Supervisors in each institution were additionally interviewed about observed performance gaps and available training resources. Mean overall competency scores were 61.4 out of 100, with species differentiation and parasite density quantification scoring the lowest at 53.2 and 57.8 respectively. Participants who had attended external refresher training within the preceding two years scored significantly higher. Short online video modules and peer mentoring were the most preferred learning modalities. The study recommends a structured training programme addressing identified competency gaps and advocates for annual external quality assessment participation as a professional requirement for laboratory technicians in Ogun State tertiary institutions. Keywords: training needs assessment, malaria microscopy, laboratory technicians, Ogun State, competency framework.