Future-Ready Pharmacists: This university hosts sessions on quality standards and patient safety

The School of Pharmaceutical Sciences (SPS) at Apeejay Stya University (ASU), Sohna (Gurugram) organises a series of sessions under the theme “Pharmacists as Advocates of Vaccination.” The event also marked the grand inauguration of the Pharmacopoeial Education and Patient Safety Cell in collaboration with the Indian Pharmacopoeia Commission (IPC), Ghaziabad. 

Notably, this is the first such cell established in Haryana, signifying a pioneering step toward advancing Pharmacopoeial education and patient safety in the region. The newly established cell focuses on educating students about Pharmacopoeial guidelines, quality standards, and patient safety measures. It is envisioned to prepare future-ready pharmacists equipped with knowledge and accountability.

The session started with a ribbon cutting ceremony and lighting of the lamp by the dignitaries.

Key Sessions and Speakers:

Dr. Anupama Diwan, Dean of the School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, was the first speaker of the day. She provided an insightful explanation of the Pharmacopoeial Education and Patient Safety Cell and its significance. Her talk highlighted the role of the Indian Pharmacopoeia and the Indian Pharmacopoeia Commission in maintaining the quality standards of medicines.

Dr. Diwan emphasised that every student should understand the process of monograph preparation, as they will be actively involved in formulation and development in the future.

She also encouraged faculty members to incorporate extended syllabus content related to Pharmacopoeial standards to prepare future-ready pharmacists. The session was highly energetic and informative, making the audience aware of critical aspects beyond the regular curriculum.

This session was followed by an inspiring talk by Dr. M. Kalaivani, Principal Scientific Officer, Indian Pharmacopoeia Commission, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Govt. of India, Ghaziabad. She enlightened the audience on the importance of quality, safety, efficacy, analytical methods, and compliance with Pharmacopoeial monographs. She emphasised the responsibility of pharmacists toward society and the accountability that comes with their knowledge. Furthermore, she urged everyone to ensure the safe use of medicines. She also assured the students of the full cooperation of the Indian Pharmacopoeia Commission in disseminating knowledge as part of their training programs. It was a highly thought-provoking session, well received and appreciated by the audience.

The next session was conducted by Dr. Vijay Vir Singh, Vice-Chancellor of ASU. He emphasised the importance of patient safety and highlighted the critical role of pharmacists in ensuring it. He urged students to acquire comprehensive knowledge and training to secure a bright future and make meaningful contributions to society as pharmacists. Additionally, he stressed the need for research in this field to advance healthcare practices and improve patient outcomes.

The event was wrapped up with a curtain-raising ceremony led by Prof. Vijay Vir Singh, Vice Chancellor, Apeejay Stya University, along with the Registrar, invited guests, and dignitaries, reaffirming the commitment to make this newly established cell fully functional for strengthening patient safety initiatives. The leadership emphasized that the cell would serve as a collaborative platform for awareness, training, and capacity-building in Pharmacopoeial standards. They also highlighted that this milestone will significantly contribute to improving healthcare quality and promoting a culture of safe medication practices in the region.

The event was concluded with a formal vote of thanks delivered by Dr. Shreya Das, followed by the National Anthem.