Learning without Limits

👋 Welcome to Medical Microbiology!

Welcome to the dynamic field of Medical Microbiology—the science that reveals how microorganisms shape health, disease, and modern medicine. This course goes beyond theory, connecting the laboratory bench to the patient’s bedside, and the Zambian context to global health priorities.

As a Biomedical or Clinical Sciences student, you will explore bacteria, viruses, fungi, and other infectious agents that cause human disease. You’ll learn how they invade, how they are diagnosed, and how they are treated and prevented. With a special focus on challenges relevant to Zambia and Africa—such as antimicrobial resistance, tuberculosis, HIV, and emerging infections—you will gain skills that are globally competitive and locally transformative.

Course Description
Medical Microbiology provides an in-depth study of microorganisms of clinical significance. The course covers microbial physiology, pathogenic mechanisms, host–pathogen interactions, clinical manifestations, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of infectious diseases. Special emphasis is placed on diagnostic microbiology, antimicrobial resistance, and infection prevention in healthcare and community settings.

Designed for Biomedical and Clinical Sciences students, the course integrates foundational science with practical clinical applications, equipping learners with both the knowledge and laboratory skills needed to manage infectious diseases effectively.

Learning Outcomes
By the end of this course, you will be able to:

1. Describe the biology, classification, and pathogenicity of medically important microorganisms.

2. Apply diagnostic microbiology techniques for isolation and identification of pathogens.

3. Explain mechanisms of antimicrobial action and resistance.

4. Interpret laboratory results to inform clinical decision-making.

5. Discuss infection prevention, control, and public health strategies against infectious diseases.

🌍 This course will prepare you to become a critical thinker, problem-solver, and healthcare innovator—ready to confront Zambia’s infectious disease challenges while contributing to global health solutions.

👋 Welcome to Medical Parasitology!

Welcome to the captivating world of parasites—the hidden organisms that profoundly influence human health and disease. Medical Parasitology is not just about identifying worms or protozoa; it is about understanding how these organisms interact with humans, how they spread in communities, and how we can prevent, diagnose, and treat the diseases they cause.

This course is especially relevant in Zambia and across Africa, where malaria, schistosomiasis, and other parasitic diseases remain major public health challenges. Yet, the skills and knowledge you gain here are globally applicable equipping you to tackle parasitic infections whether in local clinics, international research centers, or global health programs.

Course Description
Medical Parasitology provides a comprehensive study of protozoa, helminths, and arthropods of medical importance. The course emphasizes parasite biology, life cycles, pathogenesis, clinical features, diagnostic methods, treatment, and control strategies. Practical sessions focus on laboratory identification techniques, case-based analysis, and public health interventions.

Designed for Biomedical and Clinical Sciences students, this course bridges theory with clinical and community applications, preparing learners to address parasitic diseases through evidence-based practice, research, and innovative control measures.

Learning Outcomes
By the end of the course, you will be able to:

1. Explain the biology and life cycles of medically important parasites.

2. Identify parasites and parasitic infections using standard diagnostic techniques.

3. Describe the epidemiology and control strategies for major parasitic diseases.

4. Apply knowledge to clinical case scenarios and community health interventions.

5. Demonstrate safe laboratory practices in handling parasitological specimens.

🌍 Step into this course ready to sharpen your skills, expand your knowledge, and contribute to reducing the burden of parasitic diseases in Zambia, Africa, and the world.

👋 Welcome to Research Protocol Development!

Welcome to the essential gateway for aspiring researchers and healthcare professionals. This is not just a course—it is your competence-based launchpad to mastering the art and science of biomedical research. Whether you are a Biomedical, Clinical, or Health Sciences student, you will gain practical skills, confidence, and real-world strategies to design, develop, and present research protocols that meet international standards.

Many students struggle with research because they only acquire information without developing true competence. This course bridges that gap: you will learn by doing, crafting protocols that are scientifically rigorous, ethically sound, and ready for institutional review or funding applications.

Course Description
Research Protocol Development equips learners with a step-by-step, practical framework for designing and implementing research studies in biomedical and health sciences. The course covers research question formulation, literature review, study design, sampling, data collection, ethical considerations, and writing clear, publishable protocols. Emphasis is placed on competency-building, ensuring that learners can independently develop, critique, and defend protocols suitable for local and global research contexts.

Designed for Biomedical, Clinical, and Health Sciences students, this course transforms learners from passive information receivers into confident, skilled researchers capable of contributing to academic, clinical, and community-based research initiatives.

Learning Outcomes
By the end of this course, you will be able to:

1. Formulate research questions and objectives that are clear, feasible, and impactful.

2. Conduct and synthesize literature to support protocol development.

3. Select appropriate study designs, sampling methods, and data collection strategies.

4. Apply ethical principles and prepare protocols for review and approval.

5. Write comprehensive, professional research protocols ready for implementation or submission.

🚀 Why Join This Course?
This is a high-value, competence-focused program: you won’t just learn theory—you will develop the skills to design research that works. Completing this course gives you the confidence and capability to excel in academic research, clinical studies, and health science projects, both locally in Zambia and internationally.

💡 Take the step from knowing to doing—invest in your research career and become a competent, results-driven researcher today.

Health Systems Management and Entrepreneurship for Clinicians
This course equips clinicians with essential skills to effectively manage healthcare systems and develop innovative healthcare solutions. Participants will learn strategic management, operational efficiency, financial planning, leadership, and entrepreneurial principles tailored to clinical settings. The course fosters the ability to identify gaps in healthcare delivery, implement sustainable solutions, and lead initiatives that improve patient care and organizational performance.

Course: Precision Malaria Diagnostics: An Interprofessional Competency Module (MAL-DIAG-2025)

e-Module Overview

This digital module tackles critical competency gaps in malaria diagnostics for Zambian healthcare teams. Designed for Biomedical Scientists, Lab Technologists, clinical students, and Nurses, it enhances diagnostic accuracy through collaboration and precision training.

What You Will Learn

By the end of this course, you will be able to:

1. Differentiate diagnostic errors (true/false positives/negatives) in microscopy and RDTs.
2. Execute precise procedures for blood smear preparation, staining, and RDT use.
3. Apply quality assurance to minimize errors in specimen collection and handling.
4. Interpret diagnostic findings in clinical and epidemiological context.
5. Collaborate effectively across professions for optimal diagnostic decisions.

Course Structure & Learning Pathway

The course follows a structured, competency-based pathway with five units. You must score 80% or higher on the Unit 1 quiz to proceed.

• Unit 1: Foundations of Malaria Diagnostics (30 min): Diagnostic principles, specimen protocols, test selection.
• Unit 2: Microscopy Precision Training (90 min): Virtual simulations, species identification, and staining assessment.
• Unit 3: Rapid Diagnostic Test Competencies (60 min): RDT interpretation, quality control, and professional communication.
• Unit 4: Integrative Case-Based Competency (60 min): Apply knowledge through simulations and complex decision-making.
• Unit 5: Competency Assessment & Reflection (60 min): Final simulation based on your case results and a self-reflection checklist.

Who Is This For?

• Biomedical Science Students
• Medical Laboratory Technologists
• Clinical Students
• Nursing Professionals

How You Will Be Assessed

• Formative Quizzes & Activities: Embedded in each unit (MCQs, image labeling, forum posts).
• Practical Case Exercises: Virtual microscopy, RDT interpretation, and decision-tree scenarios.
• Final Competency Simulation: A comprehensive assessment in Unit 5 based on your performance.
• Certificate: Awarded upon successful completion of all units and the final simulation.

Course Duration & Access

• Total Estimated Time: 4-6 hours (self-paced).
• Primary Platform: Accessible 24/7 via this Mavis LMS site.
• Mobile Learning: Use the Mavis LMS Mobile App for full offline access.
• Progression: You must pass the Unit 1 quiz (≥80%) to unlock subsequent units.

Instructor

·         e-Mentor: Mavis Sombo Nyakayoya, Dip. Biomed, BSc Biomed, MSc ID, PGD HPE Candidate

·         Background: Biomedical Scientist – Infectious Diseases Specialist

·         Contact: Please use the Mavis LMS messaging system.

Enrollment

Enrollment is free. Access is granted through institutional registration or individual professional development sign-up. For access inquiries, contact the instructor via Mavis LMS.

This course combines evidence-based content with accessible technology to strengthen malaria diagnostics across Zambia's healthcare system.