Every year, on the 14th of November, the global community pauses to focus on a disease that affects millions silently – diabetes. But this year, GPSA-KNUST decided it wouldn’t be a silent pause. It would be a loud, impactful, and inclusive digital rally. Under the theme “Breaking Barriers, Bridging Gaps,” the Health and Safety Committee organized a powerful Twitter Space webinar that blended education, experience, and empathy.
The event was a ground-breaking success in format and content. The choice of platform – Twitter Space – ensured accessibility and interactivity. The evening’s discussion was steered by Mr. Nana Kwaku Amankwah Asubonteng, GPSA-KNUST’s Organizing Secretary, who kept the virtual space vibrant and the conversations on point.
Three remarkable speakers led the session:
• Dr. George Anagli, a pharmacist and former PSF-GH president, delivered a masterclass on diabetes management, explaining the different types of diabetes, early signs and symptoms, and the role of pharmacists in long-term care.
• Mr. Samuel Kofi Amoah Antwi, the immediate past president of GPSA-KNUST and passionate health advocate, emphasized the critical need for stronger community networks. He made it clear that managing diabetes is not just a hospital affair – it starts in our homes, streets, and schools.
• Pharm. Oluwaseun Rachael Oginni, the Ashanti Regional Coordinator of ECPG and practicing community pharmacist, spoke directly to the theme. Her talk centred on real-world barriers to diabetes care, from healthcare accessibility to stigma, and how the pharmacy profession is uniquely positioned to bridge these gaps.
The highlight of the session was the interactive discussion segment, where students and participants shared personal insights and posed challenging, thoughtful questions. It wasn’t just a monologue – it was a shared conversation.
Key recommendations emerged from the session, including the formation of community support groups, regular educational workshops, and leveraging digital platforms to sustain awareness. The emphasis on policy advocacy also signalled a readiness among students to go beyond awareness and push for systemic change.
The webinar ended on a high note: hopeful, inspired, and more informed. For many, it was more than just an awareness event – it was a reminder that everyone, no matter their background, can play a role in defeating diabetes.
GPSA-KNUST’s participation in WDD 2024 broke barriers indeed – not just in knowledge, but in how we think about health advocacy in the digital age.
Reported by – Mordzifa Joel ( Rx 26 )