Apeejay celebrates the key contributions of pharmacists in the field of healthcare & research 

The School of Pharmaceutical Sciences (SPS) at Apeejay Stya University (ASU) in Gurugram hosted a one-day seminar on the occasion ‘World Pharmacists Day’. The aim of this celebration was  to recognise and acknowledge the invaluable contributions of pharmacists in the field of healthcare and research. 

The event was marked by a traditional lamp lighting ceremony and Sarasvati Vandana, symbolising the auspicious start to the day. Dr. Anupama Diwan, Dean at the School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, extended a warm welcome to all participants. She highlighted the significant role pharmacists have played in various inventions and innovations in the field of healthcare. Setting the tone for the day, Dr Diwan further  emphasised, “the immense contribution of pharmacists to society.” 

Further acknowledging and appreciating the tireless efforts of pharmacists across the globe, Prof. Raj S. Dhankar, the Vice-Chancellor of Apeejay Stya University, extended a warm welcome to the esteemed guest speakers of the day, Dr. Loick P. Kojom Foko, a Cameroonian researcher at the ICMR-National Institute of Malaria Research in New Delhi. and Dr. R.S. Ray.  He also shared valuable tips on maintaining a healthy lifestyle to reduce dependence on medicines while underlining the importance of preventive healthcare measures.

The event furthered with an oath ceremony, led by Dr. Diwan, where all students and faculty members recited an oath to uphold the highest standards of professionalism, ethics, and dedication in their pharmaceutical careers.

An invigorating beginning to the day 

The scientific sessions of the seminar commenced with a presentation by Dr. Loick P. Kojom Foko. His presentation titled, Scientific Write-up in Medical and Biomedical Fields: Method, Requirements, Obstacles, and Pitfalls, provided valuable insights into the intricacies of scientific writing, including various types of paper reviews and research methodologies. As Dr. Foko delved into his discourse, he unraveled the complex layers of scientific writing, offering attendees valuable insights that extended far beyond mere words on paper. His emphasis on methodological diversity underlined the importance of adapting writing styles to suit the specific needs of different studies, thus ensuring that scientific findings reach their intended audience with precision and clarity. 

Dr. Foko’s presentation also delved into the nuanced art of paper reviews. He highlighted the various types of reviews, from peer reviews to editorial reviews, and elucidated the significance of each in the validation and dissemination of scientific knowledge. 

Discussion on the importance of pharmacovigilance in healthcare

After the enlightening presentation by Dr. Loick P. Kojom Foko, the seminar’s second session was led by Dr. R.S. Ray, a Scientific Assistant at NCC PvPI, Government of India, Ghaziabad. Dr. Ray’s presentation titled, Pharmacovigilance Programme of India: Putting Patient Safety First, shed light on the paramount importance of pharmacovigilance in healthcare. Dr. Ray underscored the pivotal role that pharmacists assume in safeguarding patient well-being by actively participating in pharmacovigilance efforts. His presentation served as a clarion call for pharmacists to prioritise patient safety and contribute significantly to the monitoring and reporting of adverse drug reactions, ultimately ensuring the effectiveness and safety of medications in India.

A moment of creativity

Parallel to the scientific sessions, a poster-making competition was held on the theme –  Pharmacists Strengthening Health Systems. This competition allowed students to creatively express their understanding of the vital role pharmacists play in healthcare.

The day-long celebration also featured vibrant cultural programs, including a Nukkad Natak (street play) on the theme of pharmacists strengthening health systems, solo and group dance performances, and singing, adding a touch of artistic flair to the celebration.

The winners for the poster-making competition were awarded with certificates and cash prizes. Ms. Anushka Saxena won the first prize of INR 2500, Mr. Arpit Raj bagged the second prize with a cash prize of INR 2000, and Mr. Himanshu, Ms. Sanya, and Ms. Dipti collectively won the third prize of INR 1500.

Additionally, a book release ceremony was conducted where books authored by D. Mukesh Kumar Kumawat and Dr. Kapil Kumar on “Pharmaceutical Analysis” and Dr. Gufran on “Biopharmaceutics” were released by the dignitaries.

The event was a testament to the dedication and expertise of pharmacists, who continue to play a crucial role in strengthening health systems and ensuring patient safety. The vibrant cultural programs, informative scientific sessions, and recognition of talented students added to the overall success of the event. The one-day event concluded with a vote of thanks extended by the Event Coordinator, Dr. Rani Mansuri, with the hope of meeting again next year, with the same enthusiasm and commitment to the field of pharmacy.