SAPSF CELEBRATES 69TH ANNUAL LEADERSHIP CONFERENCE

By Zinhle Bhuda

The South African Pharmaceutical Students Federation (SAPSF), in collaboration with the Port Elizabeth Pharmacy Students Association (PEPSA), hosted the 69th annual national pharmacy students conference from January 31 to February 3, 2025, at The Willows Resort and Conference Centre in Gqeberha, Eastern Cape. The event, which brought together pharmacy students from across various universities in the country, served as a platform for addressing key issues facing pharmacy education and the pharmaceutical industry in South Africa.

Pharmacy students from various universities in South Africa Photo by David Kwanda

Throughout the conference, delegates and stakeholders discussed the pressing challenges faced by pharmacy students, as well as the broader issues impacting the pharmaceutical sector. Topics such as the future of pharmacy education and the need for innovation in the pharmaceutical industry were central to these discussions. “The main aim of the 69th conference is to foster meaningful engagements and learning opportunities among pharmacy students. Our goal is to bridge the gap between classroom education and clinical  practise by bringing together experts from all over the country.” said one of the event organizers, Tshepiso Masiganuga. 

Keynote speakers emphasized the importance of adapting to the evolving industry of pharmacy and their role in South Africa’s healthcare system. "It is very crucial for pharmacists, especially you, young pharmacists to adapt to the changing industry of pharmacy and ensure that you are able to fit in most, if not all sectors of pharmacy,” explained Refiloe Mogale,the Executive Director of the Pharmaceutical Society of South Africa. Other speakers included Aspen senior executive, Dr Stavros Nicolaou who advised students on how to succeed in the industry.

 

Link to recording of speaker, Celeste Naude  https://on.soundcloud.com/nU9HUByZgJPAU3Vm8

A major highlight of the event was the election of the new SAPSF Presidential committee (PRESCO). On February 2, 2025, Kevin Phehla, a pharmacy student from Pretoria, was elected as the new president of SAPSF. “As the newly elected president of SAPSF, I want to assure you that the first point of departure in this journey is unity of BPharm students,” Phehla said after being handed over the presidency. 

The new presidential committee of the SAPSF Photo by David Kwanda

The election session demonstrated the democratic spirit of the conference, with students voting for leaders they believe will represent their interests effectively. Phehla’s leadership will focus on advocating for stronger regulation in the pharmaceutical industry. "My fundamental purpose is to bring a particular change in terms of the unemployment rate that is increasing in the pharmacy field," Phehla added.

Link to video of new SAPSF President, Kevin Phehla

The conference concluded with participants expressing a strong sense of purpose and unity. As students return to their studies and careers, they are focused on advancing a collective vision for the future of pharmacy in South Africa, emphasizing innovation, collaboration, and student advocacy.