On 13th February 2025, The African Society for Laboratory Medicine (ASLM), in collaboration with Africa CDC and Cameroon’s Ministry of Health (MOH), convened a review meeting to assess the impact of the LabMap Academy Training. The goal was to gather insights, refine strategies, and strengthen laboratory mapping efforts. “This initiative is driving significant improvements in laboratory infrastructure and public health decision-making,” noted Di Maissou from the Cameroon MoH.

The LabMap Academy was designed to equip data collectors with essential skills in laboratory mapping and data collection. In this move, Cameroon became the first country to adopt a remote training model for laboratory mapping, ensuring cost-effectiveness and sustainability. This approach enabled data collectors to complete their training remotely, making it a scalable and efficient solution for strengthening laboratory systems. Following the training, data collectors conducted self-assessments across 19 pilot sites, validating their skills before the official data collection phase begins in March 2025.

At the heart of this transformation are the data collectors, whose confidence and skills have grown. They seek more interactive, hands-on training to enhance practical application. Their dedication is setting a new standard for data collection in Cameroon.

To sustain this progress, stakeholders will refine training content based on real-world application feedback ensuring it is both practical and impactful, strengthen data validation, introduce mentorship programs, and enhance monitoring frameworks. Deeper collaboration among MOH, ASLM, and Africa CDC will ensure an optimized and reliable laboratory network.

The LabMap Academy’s impact extends beyond just training, it is reshaping how laboratory data informs healthcare strategies. By pioneering the remote training model and integrating self-assessment into data collection, Cameroon is paving the way for a resilient and responsive laboratory system that will serve as a model for other nations.

As the next phase of data collection approaches, the energy and determination of those involved will be the driving force behind meaningful, lasting change. The story of LabMap Academy is still being written, and its chapters promise to redefine the future of laboratory services in Cameroon.