QATAR – The State of Qatar has successfully hosted the tenth edition of the Eastern Mediterranean Pharmaceutical Symposium (EMPS) in Doha.

The Eastern Mediterranean Pharmaceutical Symposium is the key regional event of the Eastern Mediterranean Regional Office (EMRO) as a part of the International Pharmaceutical Student’s Federation.

The 10th Eastern Mediterranean Pharmaceutical Symposium was held under the theme “Healthcare System through the Pharmacist’s Eyes”.

This year’s symposium took place at the Qatar University (QU) located on the northern outskirts of Doha, with an official kick-off ceremony on Sunday, 9th July 2023.

It was a unique opportunity for regional and international experts to highlight the important role of pharmacists in improving healthcare systems, enhancing community health and regulations, and addressing global health challenges.

It was set up under the auspices of the patronage of Prof. Asmaa Al-Thani, Vice President for Health and Medical Science at Qatar University.

On her part, Prof. Asmaa Al-Thani, Vice President for Health and Medical Science at QU, said: “Qatar University is an academic beacon of knowledge and scientific research in the region, and it always strives to provide an inspiring and advanced learning environment for its students.”

Prof. Asmaa Al-Thani stated Qatar University remains committed to supporting student initiatives, promoting quality education and learning, scientific research, and enriching the student experience.

She further said that pharmaceutical sciences play a vital role in improving human health and enhancing the quality of life, noting that it is constantly evolving to address global health challenges.

The 10th Eastern Mediterranean Pharmaceutical Symposium focused on the responsibilities and roles of pharmacists from various healthcare perspectives, with a focus on different fields of pharmacy, and different pharmacist roles.

The regional conference served as an excellent opportunity for esteemed professionals, renowned speakers, and enthusiastic students to exchange knowledge, experiences, and expertise in the field of pharmacy.

It featured different workshops on biotechnology, nanotechnology, pharmacy career development, pharmacist-let clinicals, medication safety, and interprofessional educational sessions.

The annual event attracted high-level officials in the field of pharmacy, including Dr. Mohammed Abdul Hadi, College of Pharmacy Dean’s Representative at QU, Dr. Essam Faragallah, General Manager of Ebn Sina Medical, and Mr. Abdullah Al-Saeed, Qatar Youth Hostels representative.

In related news, Qatar University and Doha-based pharmaceutical company Ebn Sina Medical Company have teamed up to enhance the competency of community pharmacists and future pharmacists.

The agreement sets a comprehensive framework for cooperation between QU and Ebn Sina Medical Company, aligning with both parties’ strategic missions.

It is a guide on how the two parties will conduct internship programmes, training initiatives, professional development, and recognition through excellence awards.

These awards will be conferred to outstanding pharmacy students who demonstrate exceptional academic performance, leadership qualities, and a commitment to advancing the field of pharmacy.

The agreement aligns with QU’s commitment to developing cutting-edge and contemporary approaches to addressing issues related to medication use optimisation, prescribing, de-prescribing, and medication safety.

The EMPS 2023 also featured a special address delivered by Dr. Rayana Ahmed, a World Health Organization (WHO) representative, via video call.

The symposium aims to enhance cooperation among students, enrich their knowledge, skills, and experiences in the field of pharmacy, and provide opportunities for professional development, education, and international exchange.

It strives to improve pharmaceutical education strategies and foster international collaboration with students, professionals, and governmental and non-governmental organizations, ultimately aiming for the betterment of healthcare systems

What’s more, the tenth edition of the Eastern Mediterranean Pharmaceutical Symposium brought together pharmacy students, recent graduates, and alumni from pharmacy colleges across the Middle East.

Students were advised to take a proactive approach in various activities to develop research in the fields of pharmacy, medicine, and science.

Students also gained insights into the latest developments in the field of pharmacy, including the use of biotechnology, and nanotechnology in different fields of pharmacy.

The wide participation is a clear reflection of their commitment to excellence and their pivotal role in shaping the future of the pharmacy workforce.

Moreover, the second edition of this esteemed symposium was hosted in Qatar in 2011, and now, over a decade later, it returns to QU.

The event will play a critical role in solidifying QU’s position as a burgeoning leader in the entire pharmaceutical community in Qatar and bolstering advancements in pharmaceutical science.

Led and organized by dedicated students and leaders, the EMPS 2023 will accelerate the progress in fostering international collaboration and improving pharmaceutical education strategies.

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