By Our Reporter
The 5th Uganda Pharmaceutical Symposium concluded on a high note this weekend at Kampala International University Teaching Hospital and Research Centre (KIU-THR) in Ishaka, marking a significant milestone in Uganda’s journey toward Universal Health Coverage (UHC).
Held from April 11 to 13 under the theme “Universal Health Coverage: Prioritizing Supply Chain, Research, Innovation, and Digitization of 1Health,” the symposium drew over 1,000 participants from across Uganda and the region.
Jointly organized by KIU’s School of Pharmacy and the Uganda Pharmacy Students’ Association (UPSA), the three-day event created a dynamic space for students, researchers, health professionals, policymakers, and development partners to exchange ideas and shape strategies for a more resilient health system.
Purpose and Professionalism
Opening the symposium, KIU University Secretary Madam Asiati Mbabazi called on attendees to center their work around the ethical imperative of healthcare.
“We are health professionals. What is expected of us is to save lives,” she said, setting a tone that emphasized both responsibility and impact.
Reinforcing this message, Professor Eric Mabonga, Deputy Vice-Chancellor of KIU, affirmed the university’s commitment to research and innovation as tools for real-world health solutions.
“KIU-THR remains committed to enhancing research and innovation through the latest technologies. We will continue building partnerships that drive real impact in communities,” he said.
Innovation at the Forefront
One of the key highlights of the symposium was the Innovation Exhibition Village, where students and young professionals showcased homegrown solutions to Uganda’s health challenges. These included AI-powered diagnostic tools, blockchain-integrated pharmaceutical supply chains, and herbal formulations designed for rural settings.
These prototypes, most developed in university labs or research groups, earned praise from policymakers and professionals alike. Many urged institutional and financial support to help scale these innovations for national deployment.
Research, Policy, and Practical Solutions
Throughout the symposium, thought leaders stressed the importance of evidence-based policymaking and research that solves real problems.
Dr. Benjamin Mwesige, Head of Pharmacy at the Uganda Cancer Institute, called for the integration of artificial intelligence into pharmaceutical R&D and cancer care.
“We must rethink how we use innovation and knowledge products to influence health outcomes,” he urged.
Dr. Ronald Anyase Amaza, Patron of the Uganda Pharmacy Students’ Association (UPSA), encouraged students to focus on tangible results through serious research.
“Stay silent and work hard. We need research that informs policy and delivers tangible results,” he said, calling for increased funding for student research and robust implementation strategies.
Dr. Nuru Mugide: A Voice for Visionary Pharmacy
As Patron of the 5th Uganda Pharmaceutical Symposium, Dr. Nuru Mugide delivered an inspirational call to action for the next generation of pharmacists.
“By embracing research and innovation, future pharmacists will be empowered to provide patient-centered care, improve health outcomes, and drive progress toward Universal Health Coverage,” she said.
Encouraging the students to remain resilient and focused, she added: “Stay curious, informed, focused, and committed to advancing healthcare.”
Government’s Vision for Digital Health
Representing the Minister of Health, Hon. Dr. Jane Ruth Aceng, Dr. Martha Grace Ajulong—Commissioner for Pharmaceuticals and Natural Products—stressed the critical role of supply chain efficiency and digital health in achieving UHC. “Medical supply chains are the backbone of healthcare. If medicines don’t reach the last mile, we have failed,” she said.
Dr. Ajulong highlighted partnerships with agencies like USAID and urged broader adoption of tech-driven systems for better health logistics and transparency. “The future of healthcare delivery is digital. Every sector must evolve,” she added.
Youth at the Helm of Change
The symposium showcased youth leadership through research presentations, pitch competitions, and sessions hosted by the International Pharmaceutical Students’ Federation (IPSF). Student delegates demonstrated creativity, vision, and a growing influence in national health discourse.
Professor Mabonga applauded their efforts during the closing ceremony:
“This symposium is a testament to youth-led transformation. We are proud to provide a platform where future health leaders can emerge.”
A Symbolic Commitment
To close the event, Dr. Ajulong planted two medicinal trees on the KIU-THR campus—a symbolic act representing the harmony between indigenous knowledge and modern pharmaceutical practice.
In her parting remarks, she challenged the audience to overcome fear in pursuit of innovation.
“The biggest problem pharmacists have is fear—fear to fail. Stop fearing. Innovation comes when you dare to try.”
As the symposium concluded, the message from Ishaka was unmistakable: Uganda’s future in healthcare lies in collaboration, innovation, and the courage to reimagine delivery models. With academia, government, and youth leaders aligned, the country is laying the foundation for a health system that is inclusive, tech-driven, and resilient.
The 5th Uganda Pharmaceutical Symposium was not just an event—it was a catalyst for a national health innovation agenda.
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