The School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences at the University for Development Studies (UDS) marked a significant milestone in the academic journey of its fourth-year students with the second White Coat Ceremony, held on November 12, 2024, at the Dr. Andani Andani Academic Board Chamber. The annual event symbolizes the students' transition from classroom-based learning to clinical practice, a pivotal step in their journey toward becoming professional pharmacists.

The ceremony brought together distinguished guests, faculty members, students, and stakeholders from the pharmacy and healthcare sectors. Among the dignitaries present were Prof. Baba Sulemana Mohammed, Dean of the School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences; PHARM. Joseph Kodjo Nsiah Nyoagbe, President and Chairman of the Academic Board of the Ghana College of Pharmacists; the Directors of Pharmacy at the Tamale Teaching Hospital and Tamale West Hospital; and a representative from the Food and Drugs Authority (FDA).

A Call to Responsibility and Excellence
In his opening address, Prof. Baba Sulemana Mohammed reflected on the evolution of the School of Pharmacy and the importance of the pharmacy profession. He urged the students to approach their clinical roles with integrity and a strong commitment to excellence.

"The white coat you now wear signifies more than academic achievement—it is a symbol of the trust and responsibility that come with the profession," Prof. Mohammed said. "You are expected to uphold the highest standards of ethical practice as you embark on your professional journey."

Insights from the Keynote Address
Delivering the keynote address, PHARM. Joseph Kodjo Nsiah Nyoagbe provided an inspiring and pragmatic outlook on the path ahead. He spoke about the realities of professional practice, emphasizing the need for resilience and adaptability.

"Becoming a pharmacist is not just about acquiring knowledge; it is about applying that knowledge in real-world settings where the stakes are high," he stated. "You will face complex scenarios and ethical dilemmas, but these challenges are also opportunities for growth."

He reminded the students that, as they don their white coats, they are stepping into roles as custodians of trust, advocates for patients, and champions of integrity. He encouraged them to approach their careers with humility and pride, always prioritizing the well-being of their patients.

A Symbolic Transition
The highlight of the ceremony was the traditional white coat donning ritual, where practicing pharmacists robed the students, marking their official entry into the clinical phase of their training. The students also took an oath, pledging to uphold the values and ethical standards of the pharmacy profession.

Closing and Reflections
In his closing remarks, Prof. Sulemana Mohammed congratulated the students on their achievements and thanked all contributors who made the event a success. He reaffirmed the importance of the White Coat Ceremony as a cherished tradition, marking the beginning of a transformative chapter in the lives of the students.

The event was a memorable occasion for the students, their families, and the UDS community. It underscored the university’s commitment to producing skilled, ethical, and responsible professionals poised to make significant contributions to the healthcare sector.

Story by: Mutse Kweku Kelvin