The Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, recently graduated 85 new pharmacists, with Sekinat Yusuf emerging overall best graduating student.
The graduands were all inducted into the pharmacy profession by the Pharmacy Council of Nigeria (PCN), at the 2021/2022 Oath-taking and Induction Ceremony, held on 6 February, 2024 within the campus premises.
Speaking shortly before he led the graduands on the oath-taking exercise, the Registrar, PCN, Pharm. Babashehu Ahmed, charged them to be ethical in all they would be doing, urging them to continuously work for the advancement of the healthcare sector.
In his remarks at the event, the Vice-Chancellor of the university, Prof. Kabiru Bala, disclosed that ABU had been a beacon of knowledge, enlightenment, and progress since its establishment, adding that the institution had produced leaders, innovators, and change-makers who had made significant contributions to various fields.
He said the Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, being an integral part of the university, had a responsibility of upholding the highest standards of excellence and ethics in the field of pharmacy.
Bala, who was represented by the Deputy Vic- Chancellor, Prof. Ahmed Doko Ibrahim, stated that amidst a rapidly evolving world, the role of pharmacists had become increasingly crucial. He noted that the healthcare landscape was transforming, presenting various challenges and opportunities. He therefore urged the graduands to play an active role, while proving to be true custodians of public health.
The VC said: “As you step into the professional realm, remember that you are not merely dispensers of medicines but custodians of public health. Your decisions and actions will impact lives, and I implore you to approach your responsibilities with the utmost integrity, compassion, and competence.
“I encourage you to embrace a lifelong commitment to learning. The pharmaceutical field is dynamic, and staying abreast of advancements is essential. Be proactive in seeking new knowledge, engage in continuous professional development, and contribute to the advancement of your field.”
Also speaking at the ceremony, Dean of the Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Prof. Aliyu Muhammad Musa, told the inductees that while they had learnt so much in the university, there was still so much more to be learnt. He therefore urged them to always try to update their knowledge.
“I implore you to uphold the highest ethical standards in your practice. Be honest, hardworking, dedicated, and confident in your abilities. Show humility and respect towards your seniors, and always conduct yourselves with integrity and professionalism.
“I encourage you to be good ambassadors of this esteemed institution. Remember your alma mata and come to the aid and assistance of the faculty and the university whenever you can, as individuals or as a group,” the dean said.
The high point of the event was the presentation of various categories of awards of excellence to some of the graduands. The awards included the PCN Best Graduating Student/Overall Best Graduating Student award; the Marcus Niyi Oyeyipo Foundation (MNOF) cash award; and the Association of Industrial Pharmacists of Nigeria (NAIP) award for the best graduating student in the Department of Pharmaceutics and Industrial Pharmacy.
