The Ghana College of Pharmacists (GCP) has officially inducted 85 new members and fellows during a ceremony held in Accra.
This induction coincided with the college’s annual general meeting and scientific conference, centered around the theme: “Specialist pharmacy service delivery for the attainment of universal health coverage towards the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)”.
During the event, 77 new members and 8 fellows from the sixth and seventh batches were welcomed into the college. This annual gathering serves as an opportunity for pharmacists to review past activities and present new research findings that could influence pharmaceutical policy and practice in Ghana.
Dr. Yvonne Yirenkyiwaa Esseku, the Rector of GCP, highlighted significant challenges faced by the institution, including staff shortages and logistical issues, such as the lack of a functional vehicle for accreditation and monitoring activities.
Dr. Esseku appealed to the government for financial support to enhance the training and effectiveness of pharmacists in the country.
In response, Dr. Joycelyn Aziz, Director of Pharmacy Units at the Ministry of Health, assured that steps were being taken to address these challenges. She mentioned efforts to secure necessary personnel and provide vehicles for the college’s activities.
Additionally, Dr. Aziz reaffirmed the Ministry of Health’s commitment to supporting the GCP in acquiring suitable premises that reflect its growing recognition.
The ceremony also spotlighted the contributions of pharmacists to pediatric oncology. Pinamang Boateng Desu, Country Coordinator of World Child Cancer, praised the inclusion of pharmacists trained in pediatric oncology among the new inductees.
She emphasized the importance of their role in enhancing child cancer treatment, which has seen a rise in recent years, and pledged continued collaboration with the GCP to train more specialists in this field.
This significant event marks a step forward in enhancing specialist pharmacy services in Ghana, contributing towards achieving universal health coverage and supporting the Sustainable Development Goals.
