63rd Anniversary of GPSA-KNUST Marked in Style

The air buzzed with excitement as GPSA-KNUST celebrated 63 years of nurturing and grooming individuals who would eventually become key players in the pharmaceutical space and the nation as a whole. These notable figures include but are not limited to the following list; 

1. Prof. (Mrs.) Rita Akosua Dickson, first female and incumbent Vice Chancellor, KNUST;
2. Prof. Christian Agyare, Provost of the College of Health, KNUST;
3. Dr. (Mrs.) Delese Mimi Darko, CEO of the Food and Drugs Authority; 
4. Prof. Alexander Nii Oto Dodoo, the Director General of the Ghana Standards Authority; 
5. Pharm. Ernest Bediako Sarpong, CEO of Ernest Chemist Ltd; 
6. Pharm. Samuel Kow Donkor, President of the Pharmaceutical Society of Ghana.
7. Kwame Agyena Boateng,  Former President of the Pharmaceutical Students’ Federation, Ghana;
8. Samuel Tenkorang Acheampong, incumbent president of the Pharmaceutical Students’ Federation, Ghana;
9. Samuel Tampanga Wepeah, President-elect of Health Science Students’ Association, KNUST.

This “tip of the iceberg“ list is a testament to GPSA-KNUST’s longstanding legacy in producing leaders who shape Ghana’s pharmaceutical landscape and inspire future generations. The Association’s impact extends far beyond its alumni, contributing significantly to the nation’s health, well-being, and development.

The celebration to this incredible milestone was a week-long extravaganza, showcasing the vibrant spirit and diverse talent of our students. From health and sanitation walks to cultural fusion and thrilling competitions, each day brought a new and engaging experience. 

The week kicked off with a powerful message of health and well-being on Saturday, 6^th July, 2024. Students participated in a morning health and sanitation awareness walk, spreading awareness about the importance of hygiene and a healthy lifestyle. The evening saw a gathering of literary minds at our annual Literary Night (Nox Artis), where students showcased their talent through poetry, storytelling, dance, magic acts and songs.

Day two, Monday, 8^th July, 2024, brought a sense of community with the grand launch of the anniversary themed, ‘Celebrating 63 years of forging magnates and grooming leaders equipped to revolutionize Ghana’s pharmaceutical landscape’ and it was graced by the special presence of our esteemed Dean, Prof. Samuel Asare Nkansah and Vice Dean, Prof. Isaac Kingsley Amponsah. The proud students of the Association came beautifully dressed in their GPSA attires. The afternoon was followed by a stimulating evening of debate and public speaking, where students honed their critical thinking skills and persuasive powers in a friendly competition. 

The third day, Tuesday, 9^th July, 2024, was all about fun and games! Students dressed in various sport wears to class whiles embarking on a thrilling treasure hunt across the faculty grounds, testing their ingenuity and teamwork. 

Day four, Wednesday, 10^th July, 2024, was a cultural fusion theme day, with students dressing elegantly in various traditional apparels to class. The evening saw a fierce competition in the “Mortars and Pestles” and “Rx Challenge” events, where students demonstrated their expertise in compounding medications and patient counselling. 

On the day dedicated to showcasing pride and belonging, Day five,  Thursday, 11^th July, 2024, students proudly repped their alma mater to class. As usual, there were very interesting arguments by students who showcased unequivocally and with unbridled pride,  what their alma maters are known for.

As GPSA was instituted in 1961, Day six took us on a nostalgic journey to the 60s era, with students donning retro outfits like students from that time period. There was also a blood donation exercise named HaemoDrive on the faculty’s lawn where students donated blood to save lives. This heroic initiative was executed in collaboration with and overseen by the Blood Transfusion Unit of Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital (KATH) with 62 qualified donors contributing to the cause. The evening concluded with a relaxing movie night, allowing students to enjoy a moment of shared entertainment at SG Mall Cinema.

On Saturday  July 12^th, 2024, the week-long celebration reached a fever pitch with a nail-biting football match that united students of GPSA and GHEMSA, faculty staff and alumni in a joyful display of friendly rivalry and teamwork

This 63^rd anniversary celebration was a testament to the dedication, talent, and spirit of the Ghana Pharmaceutical Students’ Association and was nothing short of entertaining and momentous. We look forward to many more years of success and celebration!

Reported by:

Yaa Otchere Tiwaah (Rx 27)