Over 100 pharmacy students from prominent universities in Uganda, including Makerere, Mbarara University, Kampala International, Cavendish, and Victoria University, have petitioned Parliament over the Pharmaceutical Society of Uganda's alleged overstep in regulating pre-internship exams.
The students argue that this move unjustly obstructs qualified pharmacy graduates from entering the profession.
In the petition, the students claim the Pharmaceutical Society of Uganda operates without a legal mandate to establish, enforce, and regulate pre-internship exams.
The students argued that the exams undermine the authority of accredited universities, the National Council for Higher Education, and the Ministry of Education.
In the petition the students demand that the Uganda Pharmacy Council assumes its regulatory functions as mandated by law.
The petition was received by Youth MP for Northern Uganda, Boniface Okot, on behalf of Speaker Anita Among. "Parliament will consider the whole process in processing this petition," Okot stated.
According to parliamentary procedures, the petition will be reviewed, and the relevant committee will be tasked with investigating the matter within 45 days.
The outcome of this petition could have significant implications for pharmacy students and the regulation of the pharmaceutical industry in Uganda. If Parliament intervenes, it may lead to a more streamlined and lawful regulatory process, ensuring that qualified graduates can enter the profession without unnecessary hurdles.
Similar issues have been raised in other contexts. For instance, in the UK, pharmacy students have protested against governing bodies' examination processes, citing unfair practices and a lack of transparency. These concerns highlight the need for regulatory bodies to ensure their processes are fair, lawful, and supportive of aspiring professionals.