Integral University Celebrates World Pharmacist Day with Focus on Antimicrobial Resistance

The programme focused on the vital role of pharmacists in strengthening public healthcare, promoting the rational use of medicines and addressing the growing global challenge of antimicrobial resistance.

The event began with a welcome address by Prof. Syed Misbahul Hasan, who welcomed the distinguished guests, faculty members and participants. He highlighted the importance of the pharmacy profession in strengthening healthcare systems and contributing to better patient outcomes.

Mrs. Urmila Agrawal, Assistant Commissioner (Drugs), Food and Drug Administration (FDA), Government of Uttar Pradesh, Lucknow, graced the occasion as the Chief Guest. In her address, she emphasized the importance of pharmacists in ensuring the safe, effective and responsible use of medicines.

She also highlighted the responsibility of pharmacists in safeguarding public health, creating awareness about antimicrobial resistance and preventing the misuse and overuse of antibiotics. She stressed the need for responsible medicine practices to address the growing threat of drug-resistant infections.

Mr. S. Srivastava of Glenmark Pharmaceuticals attended the programme as the Guest of Honour. He spoke about the evolving role of pharmacists in the healthcare sector and highlighted their contributions to patient care, pharmaceutical innovation and promoting the rational use of medicines.

The celebration also emphasized the importance of collaboration among healthcare professionals, regulatory authorities and the pharmaceutical industry to combat antimicrobial resistance and strengthen healthcare delivery.

The speakers underlined the role of pharmacists in promoting antimicrobial stewardship, encouraging the appropriate use of antibiotics and creating public awareness to help prevent the spread of drug-resistant infections.

The programme was convened by Prof. (Dr.) Tarique Mahmood, Head, Department of Pharmacy, and Prof. Dr. Juber Akhtar, Dean, Faculty of Pharmacy, Integral University. Prof. Dr. Kuldeep Singh, Prof. Dr. Vaseem A. Ansari and Dr. Irfan Aziz served as the Co-Convenors of the event.

The programme concluded with a renewed commitment to empowering future pharmacists with professional knowledge, ethical responsibility and a patient-centred approach to healthcare. The event reiterated the role of pharmacy education in preparing competent healthcare professionals who can contribute to the vision of a healthier India.