-Port-Harcourt
The Vice-Chancellor of the University of Port Harcourt, Professor Owunari A. Georgewill, has called on the newly inducted pharmacy graduates to uphold the highest standards of professionalism, integrity, and excellence as they embark on their careers in the pharmaceutical sector. He made this statement during the induction and oath-taking ceremony for the graduates, marking their official entry into the pharmaceutical profession in Nigeria.
Welcoming attendees, Professor Georgewill extended special recognition to the esteemed guests, including the special guest of honor, who was ably represented, and the keynote speaker, Professor Azuka Okpara. He acknowledged the presence of other dignitaries, faculty members, students, and stakeholders, stating that the event was a culmination of years of rigorous academic training, dedication, and resilience by the graduates.
“As they formally take their place in the noble pharmacy profession, we extend our warmest congratulations to them for achieving this significant milestone. Their journey has been characterized by discipline, perseverance, and commitment to learning the art and science of pharmacy,” he said.
Professor Georgewill emphasized that the knowledge and skills acquired at the University of Port Harcourt had adequately prepared the graduates for the challenges ahead in the pharmaceutical industry, academia, and other professional spheres. He urged them to regard the professional oath as a solemn reminder of their ethical obligations and responsibilities.
“The healthcare system depends on your integrity, competence, and commitment to serving humanity. Uphold the principles of professionalism, accountability, and excellence in all your endeavors. Always remember that a pharmacist is not just any professional but a custodian of health, a researcher, and a trusted advisor to patients and the medical community,” he stressed.
Reflecting on the importance of quality training, the Vice-Chancellor recounted his planned discussion with the Pharmaceutical Council of Nigeria and the Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences in Rivers State. He underscored the need for thorough training, emphasizing that improperly trained pharmacists could pose risks to public health.
“If we don’t train you well and you go out to practice pharmacy, we can be the victims in your hands. Many people have the resources to seek healthcare globally, but emergencies often begin here before any overseas intervention. This is why we, as a university, have taken our time to train you properly, ensuring that should we ever become your patients, we can trust the quality of care you will provide,” he stated.
Professor Georgewill expressed deep appreciation to the Pharmaceutical Council of Nigeria for its continuous oversight, mentorship, and regulation of the pharmacy profession. He acknowledged the council’s unwavering commitment to maintaining the highest standards in pharmaceutical practice across the country.
He also commended the Dean, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, distinguished professors, and heads of departments for their relentless dedication to training and mentoring the graduates, shaping them into professionals ready to contribute meaningfully to the healthcare sector.
The Vice-Chancellor left a parting message of encouragement and responsibility to the newly inducted pharmacists. “As you step into this profession, always remember the values instilled in you—professionalism, ethical conduct, and a deep sense of responsibility. The world needs competent and compassionate pharmacists, and we have no doubt that you will make the University of Port Harcourt proud.”
The ceremony concluded with the administration of the professional oath, marking the official transition of the graduates into the pharmaceutical profession.