As a current board and assembly member of the Royal Pharmaceutical Society with a year of service, I’m honoured to stand as a candidate for the upcoming elections. I want to emphasise my dedication to two crucial pillars: training and education, and professional development.
I am reminded of the profound responsibility we bear not only to our profession but also to the next generation of pharmacists who will carry its torch into the future. Over the past year, I have been involved at the forefront of decisions surrounding professional development and policy setting for pharmacists. I have witnessed firsthand the invaluable contributions and potential of our early career pharmacists and students. It is with this passion that I advocate for a robust and inclusive training framework that nurtures growth and cultivates excellence.
Our medical colleagues have long prioritised comprehensive training and development programs. It’s time we follow suit and prioritise a structured plan to support training and ongoing professional development. This is especially critical as we approach the challenges of the 2025 prescribing pharmacists race and concerns over the lack of designated supervisors for independent prescribing training.
Training should be viewed as a measure of goodwill towards our profession and the patients we serve. Investing in the education and mentorship of our future pharmacists is an investment in the health and well-being of our communities. By providing them with the necessary tools, guidance, and opportunities to thrive, we not only ensure the delivery of high-quality patient care but also uphold the integrity and reputation of our profession. Furthermore, independent prescribing training should be accessible and free for everyone as the purpose of training is to provide specialist healthcare services to our patients.
Additionally, a comprehensive training program not only equips our pharmacists and students with the knowledge and skills needed to excel in their roles but also instils in them a sense of purpose and dedication to the ethical principles that underpin our profession. By fostering a culture of continuous learning and professional growth, we not only empower them to adapt to the ever-evolving landscape of healthcare but also inspire them to become advocates for positive change within our profession and beyond.
Upon re-election, I plan to champion comprehensive training for our pharmacists and students, continuing to uphold the society’s commitment to excellence, compassion, and integrity in pharmacy practice.
Sorbi Khattak
