‘World Pharmacist Day’ observed in Kohima, Tuensang

Nagaland Pharmacist Association (NPA) in collaboration with Kohima District Pharmacist Union (KDPU) organised the state level “World Pharmacist Day” on the theme “Pharmacy United in Action for a Healthier World”, in the Conference Hall of the chief medical office (CMO), here, on September 25.
The celebration commemorates the establishment of the International Pharmaceutical Federation (FIP) on September 25, 1912.
Addressing the gathering of pharmacists serving under the department of Health & Family Welfare (H&FW), district pharmacy officer, Kohima, Khizoto spoke on the theme.
He also shared the objective to extend invitation to colleagues from all areas of pharmaceutical profession to join the campaign and demonstrate how they were unified for health and overcoming conflict, political and cultural perspectives and economic inequality. He said the day was a chance to emphasise the importance of the pharmacist profession-related responsibilities, without which there would be no comprehensive patient care.
Khizoto stated that the profession has changed over time and today, it was not only limited to medicines but also extended to the preparation, production, analysis and storage of medical supplies.
He pointed out that pharmacy education and its branch of pharmaceutical industry in the country has witnessed tremendous expansion over the last century.
He also added that the limited public awareness of pharmacy services was a current challenge for pharmacies in the health system in Nagaland.
In this regard, he recommended both government and non-governmental organisations in this profession to collaborate in order to achieve welfare goals of the sector.
Khizoto was also of the view that the government must shift the mindset to have a more balanced curriculum that fosters competency of the profession in order to empower pharmacists to further define roles in the health care system in Nagaland.
H&FW deputy drug controller, Lithungo highlighted the need to upgrade pharmacist profession in the state and remarked that just acquiring a degree was not enough.
He therefore, urged upon pharmacists to continue equipping themselves with more knowledge and to report poor quality drugs while also disseminating health awareness.
Drug inspector Kohima, Ethungbemo Ezung and deputy director pharmacy, Khele Thorie also exhorted the gathering.
The programme was chaired by AYUSH, pharmacist, Sezovonuo Tetso while invocation was offered by Aloni Shijoh.
Pharmacist and KDPU president Kiyekhu Chophy delivered welcome address, pharmacist and NPA president Libonthung R Shitiri offered the vote of thanks while NSACS pharmacist Jentinochet Amri presented a special number.
Tuensang: Tuensang District Pharmacist Union (TDPU) observed World Pharmacist Day in the conference hall of the CMO Tuensang, on September 25.
In a press release, DMO NHM Tuensang, Apheang stated that during the programme, a short speech was delivered by head pharmacist Imlienla.
She emphasised on roles of pharmacists and their importance in healthcare sector, perception of pharmacist and its involvement in different health sector including pharma co-vigilance.
The programme was chaired by TDPU president Hoshea and invocation was offered by pharmacist Imtikumla.
A special number was presented by Chubalemla and friends while vote of thanks was proposed by pharmacist Lanu.