The Pharmacy Student Club of National Model College for Advanced Learning (NMCAL) held a highly engaging and informative event at Nagarjun Party Palace, centered around the theme "Pharmacist: Meeting Global Health Needs." The event aimed to inspire and educate pharmacy students on their vital role in the ever-evolving healthcare field.
NMCAL students Newnic Shrestha and Aanchal Adhikari hosted the program starting at 11:30 AM. It began with the distribution of traditional Khadas to guests, followed by the national anthem, a moment of pride for all attendees. Dr. Madhav Prasad Baral, NMCAL's campus chief, led a symbolic prajawalan (lamp lighting) ceremony, signifying the light of knowledge and innovation in the pharmacy profession.
In her welcoming speech, Dr. Sabyata Gautam, Head of the Pharmacy Department, underscored the importance of the event’s theme. This was followed by an energetic dance performance by B.Pharmacy 3rd-year students Tirsana and Simran, which added a lively touch to the proceedings.
Although the event’s chief guest, Gagan Kumar Thapa, former Health Minister of Nepal, could not attend in person, his video message urged pharmacy students to pursue innovative research and make meaningful contributions to healthcare.
Notable speakers included NPC Registrar Mr. Sanjib Kumar Pandey and Gajendra Man Shrestha, Executive Chairman of Norvic Pharmacy P. Ltd., who shared their insights on pharmacists' role in addressing global health needs. A captivating solo dance by Diksha Das further added to the cultural flavor of the event.
Dr. Raj Kumar Thapa, Chief Pharmacist at Patan Academy of Health Sciences, delivered an insightful speech on pharmacists' expanding roles and the immense opportunities available in the sector. His talk was followed by a heartfelt poem recital, "Jiwan Yasto Banos" (Life Should Be Like That), by first-year B.Pharmacy student Aanchal Adhikari.
Barsha Shakya, a former NMCAL student and current regulatory officer, shared her professional journey and highlighted the importance of a service-oriented approach in the field of pharmacy. Lecturer Anis Rai followed with a talk on how knowledge, skills, and attitudes contribute to success in the profession.
Mr. Gajendra Bahadur Bhuju, former Director General of the Department of Drug Administration, emphasized the significance of World Pharmacy Day and shed light on this year's global theme, "Pharmacists: Meeting Global Health Needs."
A special moment in the event was Professor Mohan Amatya's farewell ceremony. Dr. Madhav Prasad Baral and Assistant Campus Chief Nava Raj Heka presented him with a token of appreciation, while Pharmacy Student Club President Anjani Kumar Shah gifted him a canvas portrait. Professor Amatya expressed his gratitude and shared words of wisdom on the sensitive and impactful nature of the pharmacy profession.
The event concluded with a vote of thanks by Dr. Baral, who motivated students to work hard and aim high, bringing pride to both NMCAL and Nepal. After a group dance and a delightful lunch, the day ended with a panel discussion led by Ishtyaque Mikrani, which encouraged knowledge sharing and audience participation, leaving everyone informed and inspired.
The event left a lasting impression, highlighting the critical role pharmacists play in global health and motivating students to strive for excellence in their careers.