In celebration of World Pharmacists Day 2025, Villa College's Faculty of Health Sciences recently hosted an insightful programme under the guiding theme, "Think Health Think Pharmacist." The event served as a crucial platform to explore the profession's expanding responsibilities and its integral role in shaping sustainable healthcare systems. Moving beyond traditional perceptions, the discussions highlighted how modern pharmacists are becoming central figures in patient care, public health, and environmental stewardship.
The session commenced with a compelling virtual keynote address from Dr. B Mahammad Ishaq, a Senior Lecturer at the University of Technology and Applied Sciences in Oman. His presentation, titled "Beyond Prescriptions: The Evolving Role and Contribution of Pharmacists towards Better Healthcare," set a forward-thinking tone for the evening. Dr. Ishaq's analysis detailed the significant shift from a focus on dispensing medicine to a more holistic, patient-centric advisory role. This evolving function positions pharmacists as accessible healthcare experts who are vital for improving health literacy and ensuring positive patient outcomes. The international perspective provided a rich context, underscoring a global movement towards recognising pharmacists as indispensable partners in the broader healthcare ecosystem.
A central highlight of the event was the dynamic student-led panel discussion, which addressed the theme, "Pharmacists as Leaders in Sustainable Healthcare." This segment demonstrated Villa College's commitment to nurturing proactive and socially conscious professionals. The discussion featured student panelists Aminath Asila, Haifa Saeed, and Khadheeja Rishaalath, and was skillfully moderated by Mariyam Laisa. Their dialogue explored the tangible ways pharmacists can contribute to sustainability, including promoting rational drug use, managing medical waste, and advocating for public health initiatives that align with global sustainable development goals. This student-driven conversation showcased not only a deep understanding of the subject but also the leadership potential being cultivated within our institution.
The occasion was made particularly significant by the presence of our honoured Chief Guest, Ms. Aisha Ibrahim Didi. As a Former National Pharmaceutical Board Member and the Former Director General for the National Drug Agency, her participation in the closing ceremony provided a powerful endorsement of the event's themes. Her distinguished career and extensive experience offered our students and faculty invaluable insights, bridging the gap between academic theory and national healthcare policy. Her presence underscored the importance of developing a pharmacy workforce that is prepared to meet the complex challenges of the future.
Ultimately, the World Pharmacists Day celebration at Villa College was more than a ceremonial event; it was a meaningful exploration of the future of the profession. By bringing together academic experts, aspiring students, and esteemed national figures, the programme reinforced our commitment to producing graduates who are not only technically proficient but are also equipped to lead with vision and integrity in the evolving landscape of global health.
