Passion behind the microscope

Henrietha Karises has always been a "laboratory girly", a nickname she wears proudly, and one that perfectly captures her deep-rooted passion for science and diagnostics.Today, at 31 years old, she stands at the helm of Nampath Laboratories in Swakopmund as the Medical Laboratory Scientist in Charge, a position that not only recognises her academic achievements and professional competence but also her unwavering dedication to a field that often works silently behind the scenes of patient care.Born and raised in Windhoek and now based along Namibia's coast, Karises’ journey into the world of medical laboratory science began long before she stepped into a university lecture hall. As a high school learner at Jan Möhr Secondary School, she volunteered as a laboratory assistant, setting up practical experiments for senior science learners.“I had an upper hand with the curriculum and greatly excelled in all my science subjects,” she recalls. “This birthed my love for lab work, and venturing into medical laboratory science was the ultimate aim.”Timely and accurate Her academic record speaks volumes. After completing her primary education at Emma Hoogenhout Primary School, she went on to rank among the top 10 students at Jan Möhr from grades 8 through 12. It was only natural that she would continue to excel in her tertiary studies. She earned her honours degree in Medical Laboratory Sciences in 2018 and followed it with a master’s in health sciences in 2022, both from the Namibia University of Science and Technology (NUST).In her current role at Nampath, Karises oversees every step of the laboratory process, from pre-examination through to the final post-examination stage. Her responsibilities extend beyond diagnostics; she is also involved in client relations and stock management for reagents and consumables.“Doctors’ decisions are greatly influenced by laboratory work,” she explains. “So, my aim every day is to issue timely, accurate and precise results to help them make sound decisions in patient care.”A world of differenceIt’s a career that marries scientific precision with human compassion. Though she doesn’t work directly at a patient’s bedside, Karises finds immense fulfilment knowing that her work plays a crucial role in healing. “Seeing patients heal because of your diagnostic input is extremely heart-warming. Here, passion overpowers your will,” Karises says.For those called to the medical field but hesitant to work directly with patients, Karises offers a comforting message, “Medical laboratory science is for you. It is not the easiest course to study, but the fruits thereof are sweet.”Her story is one of purpose, perseverance and passion. From high school labs to leading one of the most critical departments in healthcare, her journey is a powerful reminder that even behind the microscope, one can make a world of difference.

Passion behind the microscope

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Namibian Sun 2025-12-17

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Passion behind the microscope

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Namibian Sun 2025-12-17

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