While community pharmacists across Australia work hard to meet unprecedented demand for COVID-19 vaccinations and rapid antigen tests, the industry continues to invest in its own future by delivering education resources for its next generation.
The National Australian Pharmacy Students’ Association - or NAPSA - Congress late in January offered a chance for pharmacy students to network, discuss their progress with their pharmacy education and to generally “shoot the breeze”.
For the second year running the premier education and networking event for pharmacy students in Australia and New Zealand moved to an online format.
As with many networking events, the organising committee from James Cook University took the decision to move online in the face of COVID-19 variants and uncertainties around interstate travel.
Addressing congress delegates, Victorian Branch President of the Pharmacy Guild of Australia, Anthony Tassone, noted with appreciation their service and resilience during these unprecedented times.
Mr Tassone stressed the strong, positive future for community pharmacy.
He said the Pharmacy Guild was helping develop the tools needed to build a vibrant pharmacy sector for the 21st century.
These included the most recent Community Pharmacy Agreement, developing an ability to work to full scope of practice and promoting just how much a career in community pharmacy can offer.
The Guild also presented the “Community Pharmacy – A World of Opportunities” panel discussion with community pharmacists, Jess Burrey, Jack Buckley, and Ilwoo Park. The panel shared their stories and career journeys from university studies, travelling to Australia as a non-English speaking student, working in rural communities and life as a community pharmacy manager and owner, leaving delegates excited to be part of the future of community pharmacy.
Targeting the mainstream interests of pharmacy students, the Guild also presented forums on leadership and on getting the most out of your career.
NAPSA Congress Organising Committee Chair Breanna Busetti said participants were determined COVID-19 would not hold their education back.
The committee had worked to ensure students attending the event still received an all-inclusive and well-rounded experience that furthered both their personal and professional development.
“We wanted students to take away a sense of hope and indeed inspiration about the future of their pharmacy profession,” she said.
The Pharmacy Guild is proud platinum sponsor of the NAPSA Congress and principal sponsor of the NAPSA National Executive.
