UG School of Pharmacy Inducts 77 PharmD Students at 4th White Coat Ceremony.
The School of Pharmacy at the University of Ghana has officially inducted seventy-seven (77) Level 500 Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD) students into clinical training at its 4th White Coat Ceremony, held on April 7, 2026.
The ceremony marked a significant transition for the students, symbolising their progression from preclinical studies to hands-on clinical practice. The event brought together university officials, faculty members, government representatives, industry stakeholders, parents, and well-wishers to celebrate the milestone.
Organised under the theme “The Pharmacist’s Promise: First Contact, Lasting Impact,” the ceremony highlighted the essential role of pharmacists in delivering ethical, patient-centred healthcare.
Representing the Vice-Chancellor, the Pro-Vice-Chancellor for Research, Innovation and Development, Professor Felix Ankomah Asante, described the occasion as a defining moment in the professional journey of the students. He emphasised that the white coat signifies a commitment to integrity, compassion, and excellence in pharmaceutical care.
Professor Asante further noted that pharmacists play a lasting role in healthcare delivery through patient counselling, ensuring patient safety, and making critical clinical interventions.
In her address, the Dean of the School of Pharmacy, Professor Irene Kretchy, underscored the importance of pharmacists as accessible healthcare providers whose expertise and dedication significantly influence patient outcomes and public health.
She also highlighted the School’s achievements, including its recognition as the Best Pharmacy Training Institution in Ghana and the consistent outstanding performance of its graduates in professional examinations. Additionally, she announced upcoming activities to mark the School’s 20th anniversary later this year.
The Guest of Honour, Member of Parliament for Ayawaso West Wuogon and Deputy Minister for Food and Agriculture, Hon. John Setor Dumelo, reaffirmed the crucial role pharmacists play in national development. He indicated that the government’s proposed 24-hour economy policy would create more opportunities for pharmacists while improving healthcare accessibility across the country.
Delivering the keynote address, the Chief Executive Officer of Top Up Pharmacy, Dr. Richard Kwadwo Odor, encouraged students to remain confident despite knowledge gaps, urging them to ask questions and seek guidance when needed.
He also advised them to adopt an entrepreneurial mindset, particularly in community pharmacy, by transforming pharmacy spaces into patient-focused wellness centres through innovation and improved service delivery.
Dr. Odor further stressed the importance of mentorship and ethical practice, noting that pharmacists play a critical role in ensuring patient safety through proper assessment, counselling, and timely interventions. He encouraged the students to go beyond dispensing medications by engaging patients compassionately to improve overall health outcomes.
Speaking on behalf of their colleagues, Michelle Tetteh, Kwaku Agyeman-Duah, and John Nilimoh Ngmalbini reflected on their academic journey, sharing experiences, challenges, and the support systems that have contributed to their growth.
As part of the ceremony, citations were presented to individuals and organisations for their continued support in advancing pharmaceutical education and professional development. Notable recipients included Pharmatrust Pharmacy and UNICOM Chemist Limited.
The White Coat Ceremony continues to serve as a vital tradition, reinforcing the values of professionalism, responsibility, and dedication among future pharmacists as they prepare to contribute meaningfully to healthcare delivery.
By: Aboagye Yaw Ankomah