The Pharmacy Council of Nigeria (PCN) has called on provosts and principals of health colleges to adopt best practices in training pharmacy technicians.
Speaking at an interactive forum in Abuja on Thursday, PCN Registrar, Pharm. Ibrahim Babashehu Ahmed, emphasised the evolving role of pharmacy technicians and the need for quality training.
He stressed that graduates must be well-equipped with knowledge, skills, and ethical grounding to perform their roles effectively.
To improve standards, PCN has introduced a National Pre-Certification Examination (NPCE), established a tier 3 cadre, reviewed curricula, and expanded training schools, including private institutions that meet approved standards.
“Previously, pharmacy technicians had an undefined role in community pharmacies. Now, every pharmacy is required to have a trained technician instead of unqualified apprentices. We also advocate for their inclusion in primary healthcare centres and satellite pharmacies,” Ahmed said.
In his keynote address, Prof. Umaru Pateh, an expert in pharmaceutical chemistry, highlighted the critical role of pharmacy technicians in inventory management, medication dispensing, patient counselling, and compounding.
He, however, noted challenges such as inadequate training facilities, weak curricula, lack of continuous education, and regulatory lapses.
He warned against unqualified individuals practising as pharmacy technicians, posing risks to public health.
“PCN, colleges, and stakeholders must enforce regulations and introduce quality assurance in training,” he urged.
PCN Governing Board chairman, Pharm. Wosilat Giwa, acknowledged the demand for more schools and increased admission quotas but insisted that all institutions must comply with established standards and guidelines for seamless operations.
