The Pharmaceutical Society of Ghana (PSGH) holds as its core mandate the promotion of the rational use of medicines to safeguard public health. In steadfast pursuit of this mission, the society organizes an annual Drug Safety Campaign (DSC). This initiative is designed to uphold the sacred trust placed in the pharmacy profession and to reinforce the vital role of pharmacists within the healthcare ecosystem, thereby enhancing the profession’s profile and relevance to the general public.
This year, the Ghana Pharmacy Students’ Association at the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (GPSA-KNUST) was entrusted with hosting the Drug Safety Campaign 2025. The event was successfully held over a five-day period, from Tuesday, 7th October, to Saturday, 11th October, 2025. This extended duration allowed for a comprehensive series of activities, engagements, and public health interventions, effectively amplifying the campaign’s core message and expanding its reach within the university community and the public.
The campaign commenced with the “Akwaaba Night,” a welcome event designed to foster camaraderie and excitement among attendees. The evening was marked by a vibrant atmosphere, featuring music, dining, and social interactions, successfully setting a positive and energetic tone for the days to follow. The second day featured the flagship event of the campaign: the Annual General Congress. The ceremony was convened at 9:00 AM in the Great Hall of KNUST, under the theme “Innovating for Impact – Championing Safe Medication Use: Our Role in Public Health.”
The congress was graced by distinguished dignitaries, including Elder Dr. Samuel Amo Tobbin as the Guest of Honour, Dr. Paul Owusu Donkor as the Guest Speaker and Mr. Hayford Brako as the Keynote Speaker. The event was chaired by the then President of the PSFGH, Ms. Manuella Coffie. Following the main ceremony, the day continued with the Pharmainnovation
session. This segment featured representatives from multiple pharmacy schools, including GPSA KNUST, GPSA-UG, GPSA-UHAS, and GPSA-CU. The session served as a dynamic platform for students to showcase their ingenuity, presenting a range of innovative ideas and solutions aimed at advancing the pharmacy field.
The third day was dedicated to public engagement, beginning with a Health Outreach program. This session provided essential health screenings and medication awareness to the local community, directly fulfilling the campaign’s core mandate of promoting public health. Upon returning to the university campus, the energy continued with the PharmaOlympics, presented by the Pharmaceutical Students’ Federation, Ghana (PSFGh). This highly anticipated event showcased participants’ athleticism, team spirit, and sportsmanship through a series of competitive games, fostering camaraderie in a dynamic and spirited atmosphere.
The fourth day of the DSC was a whirlwind of democracy, culture, and celebration, packing a powerful punch from start to
finish. The undeniable headline of the day was the PSFGh Elections. Transforming the venue into an authentic Ghanaian polling station, the polls opened at 9:00 PM, buzzing with anticipation and democratic spirit. The event was a resounding success, culminating in the announcement of a dynamic new executive leadership team ready to steer the course. The baton of leadership was passed to President Akotey Philemon Elikplim, who will be supported by Vice President Bekoe Isaac Ofori, General Secretary Thelma Ayerki Kwabla, Treasurer Krystyn Bruce, International Relations Officer Priscilla Nweateana Buadi, Public Relations Officer Baah Nana Kwame Oduro, Health and Projects Officer Hadikatu Rashid Hamza, and Editor-in-Chief Kelvin Ofosu Ayeh Kwabena.
Following the electoral excitement, the action shifted to the breathtaking shores of Lake Bosomtwe for the Fufu Fest. This was a true feast for the senses, where the iconic Ghanaian dish was presented in grand, mouth-watering style. Against a stunning natural backdrop, the air was filled with laughter and friendly competition. Participants dove into energetic games of volleyball and embarked on thrilling canopy walks high above the forest floor, creating unforgettable memories. As evening fell, the celebration moved back to the KNUST Campus at the Community Centre. The night seamlessly transitioned into an elegant dinner and the much-anticipated Awards Night.
The Drug Safety Campaign 2025 drew to a heartfelt and uplifting close on its fifth day with a Praise Fest. This serene and spiritual gathering provided the perfect opportunity for attendees to offer praise and worship, giving thanks for the success, safety, and profound sense of community that defined the entire event. Amidst the spirit of gratitude, the day was also marked by fond farewells, as participants began their journeys home. The departure was not one of sadness, but of celebration—carrying with them new knowledge, strengthened bonds, and a renewed commitment to their vital role in public health.
Reported by:
Agyemang Mariam Pinaman