Pharmacy council announces key reforms to improve education

Islamabad:The Pharmacy Council of Pakistan (PCP) has announced a series of crucial reforms aimed at improving the standards of pharmacy education and enhancing regulatory oversight.

These decisions were taken during the 62nd meeting of the Council held last week, Vice President and Secretary of the PCP, Sardar Shabbir Ahmed, disclosed. Among the key decisions, the PCP has imposed a moratorium on granting No Objection Certificates (NOCs) to new pharmacy institutes. The move comes in response to the increasing number of pharmacy schools in the country—currently around 230—ensuring that the focus remains on improving the quality of education rather than expanding quantity.

"The number of pharmacists entering the job market in the coming years is expected to meet the current demand, and further expansion may lead to unemployment in the sector," Sardar Shabbir Ahmed stated.

In a significant move towards digital transformation, the Council has decided to digitalise its entire database. A new online portal is being developed where all applications will be processed, ensuring greater efficiency and transparency. The portal will also feature comprehensive information, including the number of seats, enrolled students, and faculty details of all accredited pharmacy institutes.

"This initiative will allow stakeholders to access real-time data and streamline regulatory processes," he added. The PCP is also taking steps to enhance compliance and accountability within pharmacy education institutions. It has decided to engage a third-party firm to conduct surveillance and assess adherence to educational and operational standards. Previously, such inspections were carried out by Council members, often leading to criticism regarding objectivity.

"The hiring process for the firm will begin this week, and it will ensure an unbiased assessment of all institutions," Sardar Shabbir explained. To further regulate faculty standards, the PCP is maintaining a centralized database of faculty members to monitor compliance with staffing requirements. "Maintaining an up-to-date record of faculty members will help in ensuring that every institute meets the necessary faculty criteria," Sardar Shabbir noted.