The Pharmaceutical Society of Ghana (PSGH) has officially opened its 2025 Annual General Meeting (AGM) at the University of Cape Coast.
The week-long event, which runs from September 22 to 27 under the theme “Strengthening Pharmacy for Primary Health Care,” has brought together stakeholders in the health sector, traditional leaders, academia, students, and other professional groups.
Welcoming participants on behalf of the Vice-Chancellor, the Provost of the College of Health and Allied Sciences at UCC, Professor Martins Ekor, expressed appreciation to the PSGH for selecting the university as the host institution.
“We are truly privileged to host this august gathering of the finest minds in Ghana’s pharmaceutical landscape,” Prof. Ekor said.
“The choice of our institution as the venue is not only a great compliment but also a powerful testament to the strong and collaborative relationship we share with the Pharmaceutical Society of Ghana.”
He added that the UCC School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences has worked hand in hand with the society to train pharmacists who are central to Ghana’s healthcare delivery.
In a statement read on his behalf by the Chief Director of the Ministry, Mr. Desmond Boateng, Health Minister Kwabena Mintah Akandoh emphasized the need to integrate pharmacy into Ghana’s free primary healthcare programme.
“Strengthening the pharmacy workforce is not just about numbers; it is about sustainability and impact,” the statement read.
“By placing pharmacists at the heart of primary care, we empower communities with expertise in preventive health, rational drug use, chronic disease management, and antimicrobial stewardship.”
The Omanhen of the Oguaa Traditional Area, Osabarima Kwesi Atta II, also urged the country to recognize pharmacists as essential healthcare providers rather than background players, emphasizing “Pharmacists must be seen as frontline respondents,” he said.
“The system must equip, engage, and empower you to do what you are trained to do save lives, improve outcomes, and promote well-being.”
Delivering his address, the President of the Pharmaceutical Society of Ghana, Pharm Dr. Samuel Kow Donkor called on government, academia, civil society, and the private sector to unite in strengthening the pharmacy profession, stating “Pharmacy represents essential health infrastructure,” he stated.
“When pharmacy is strengthened and supported, healthcare excellence flourishes. Let us transform Ghana’s primary healthcare system into one where medicines are accessible, safe, locally produced, and delivered by skilled and motivated professionals.”
The AGM has also received solidarity messages from professional bodies including the Ghana Medical Association, the Ghana Registered Nurses and Midwives Association, and the Pharmacy Technicians Association of Ghana.
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Source: Afote Asomdwoe Laryea/ATLFMNEWS
