The Pharmaceutical Society of Uganda (PSU) is advocating for the establishment of a pharmacist college to promote the pharmaceutical profession in the region. According to Dr. Jonans Tusiimire, PSU president, there are 12 accredited colleges in East, Central, and Southern Africa that cater to the needs of other health professionals, but not pharmacists. This move is expected to address the urgent needs of pharmacists in terms of professional development.
The PSU, in partnership with the East, Central and Southern Africa Health Community (ECSA-HC) and the Commonwealth Pharmacists Association, submitted a proposal in February to establish a college of pharmacists. The proposal was accepted at the Annual General Meeting of Health Ministers in Eswatini. Dr. Tusiimire expressed optimism that the college will be established, saying it will address the needs of pharmacists in the region.
Dr. Steven Lutoti, executive secretary of the PSU, has called on the government to create a dedicated pharmaceutical research fund to support research in medicines and manufacturing of drugs. He noted that while pharmacists have the knowledge to make medicines, they need financial support to conduct research and establish industries. Lutoti cited examples of industries in India and China, which have been established with government support.
The proposed college of pharmacists aims to provide a platform for pharmacists to develop their skills and expertise. Currently, pharmacists in Uganda have to seek training and education from outside the country. The establishment of the college will not only benefit pharmacists but also contribute to the development of the healthcare sector in Uganda.
The PSU has been working with partners within the ECSA Health Community to promote the pharmaceutical profession in the region. The proposed college and research fund are part of a broader effort to strengthen the pharmaceutical sector in Uganda and the region. The PSU hopes that the government will support their initiatives and provide the necessary funding.
The pharmaceutical sector in Uganda faces several challenges, including a lack of research funding and limited opportunities for professional development. The establishment of a research fund and college will help address these challenges and contribute to the growth of the sector. The PSU is optimistic that the government will support their initiatives and provide the necessary funding.
The proposed research fund will support research in medicines and manufacturing of drugs, which is critical for the development of the pharmaceutical sector in Uganda. The fund will also support the establishment of industries that can manufacture drugs locally, reducing the country's reliance on imported medicines. This initiative is expected to create jobs and contribute to the country's economic growth.
Key points
- The Pharmaceutical Society of Uganda is advocating for a research fund and college to promote the pharmaceutical profession.
- The proposed college of pharmacists aims to provide a platform for pharmacists to develop their skills and expertise.
- The establishment of a research fund will support research in medicines and manufacturing of drugs.
