Professional Development Needs of Genetic Technologists in South-South Nigerian Tertiary Hospitals

Genetic technologists are the critical technical workforce underpinning molecular genetic diagnostic services. As genetic testing demand grows in South South Nigeria, understanding the professional development needs of this workforce is essential for service quality and sustainability. This study assessed professional development needs and training gaps among genetic technologists employed at tertiary hospitals in Rivers, Delta, Bayelsa, Edo, Akwa Ibom, and Cross River States, South South Nigeria. A structured needs assessment survey was administered to 90 genetic technologists, supplemented by focus group discussions with laboratory supervisors at six hospitals. The survey covered technical competency gaps, preferred training modalities, career development aspirations, and institutional support for CPD activities. Molecular techniques including next-generation sequencing library preparation, digital PCR, and FISH interpretation were identified as the most significant technical skill gaps. Limited institutional CPD funding and absence of a national genetic technology professional association were structural barriers. Peer-to-peer learning and industry-sponsored workshops were preferred training modalities given time and cost constraints. A professional development curriculum framework tailored to South South Nigeria genetic technologist needs is proposed, alongside recommendations for a regional genetic technologist society. Keywords: genetic technologists, professional development, South South Nigeria, molecular diagnostics, training needs