Hyderabad: World Pharmacist Day Celebrated at GITAM
On September 25, 2024, the GITAM School of Pharmacy (GSP), Hyderabad, hosted a one-day National Symposium on the theme ‘Pharmacists Meeting Global Health Needs’ to mark World Pharmacist Day 2024. The event featured distinguished speakers and experts in the pharmaceutical field, who shared valuable insights into various aspects of global health and the evolving role of pharmacists.
The symposium was graced by the presence of Dr. A. Ramkishan, Deputy Drugs Controller (India), CDSCO, Hyderabad; Dr. H.N. Sivaprasad, Director – GSD and Head of R&D at Botanic Health Care; and Dr. Priyanka Das, Assistant General Manager, CareTrQ Biologics.
Dr. A. Ramkishan provided an overview of the drug regulatory authority in India, and explained its functions, roles, and the job opportunities available within government departments for aspiring pharmacists. His talk highlighted the critical role of pharmacists in ensuring drug safety and compliance with regulatory standards.
Dr. H.N. Sivaprasad delivered an insightful lecture on ‘Nutraceuticals: A Preventive Approach to Global Health and Wellness,’ emphasizing the growing importance of preventive healthcare. He discussed the rise of nutraceuticals in India, the innovative solutions emerging in this sector, and the global market opportunities for dietary supplements, particularly in the USA and South Korea. Dr. Sivaprasad encouraged students to consider entrepreneurship, stating that pharmacists could start their own companies in fields such as CROs or nutraceuticals.
Dr. Priyanka Das addressed the topic ‘Roles of HCP / CRC / CRA in Patient Safety or Drug Safety Surveillance,’ focusing on pharmacovigilance and the integration of AI and machine learning in the pharma industry. She highlighted career opportunities in the field, including positions like Drug Safety Associate, Clinical Research Associate, PV Compliance Manager, and Aggregate Report Writer.
Earlier, Prof. G. Shiva Kumar, Principal of GSP, welcomed the guests and felicitated them. He emphasized the crucial role pharmacists play in the healthcare system and wished everyone a happy World Pharmacist Day.
During the event, Dr. Bappaditya Chatterjee, Associate Professor at GSP, launched the first house journal of the school, titled ‘G-Pharma Nexus’. Dr. Chatterjee noted that the journal would enhance the visibility of GSP and contribute to its outreach efforts.
The symposium concluded with the distribution of prizes to winners of various competitions, including Essay Writing, Quiz, Poster Presentation, and Oral Presentation. The event was a success, fostering learning and inspiration among the attendees.
