Students raise awareness about antimicrobial resistance through street play
Baddi, September 25: IEC School of Pharmacy, IEC University, celebrated World Pharmacists Day 2026 on Friday with a series of awareness and cultural programmes highlighting the role of pharmacists in healthcare.
The event focused on the responsible use of medicines and awareness about antimicrobial resistance (AMR). Baddi Block Medical Officer Dr Sanjay Ranaut attended the programme as the chief guest, while IEC University Vice-Chancellor Prof Ashok Kumar Puri was present as a special guest. The programme was organised under the leadership of Dr Jyoti Gupta, Professor and Head, IEC School of Pharmacy.
The programme began with the traditional lighting of the lamp and Saraswati Vandana. In her welcome address, Dr Jyoti Gupta highlighted the evolving role of pharmacists and encouraged students to focus on professional ethics, research, innovation and patient care.
Dr Ranaut stressed the importance of rational use of medicines and responsible use of antibiotics, saying antimicrobial resistance has emerged as a major challenge for the healthcare sector. He called for greater public awareness about the issue.
Prof Puri appreciated the efforts of the School of Pharmacy and encouraged students to pursue excellence in education, research and innovation. He said pharmacy education should go beyond academic knowledge and prepare students to become responsible professionals committed to society and the healthcare system.
Students presented a series of cultural and awareness programmes during the event. A street play on antimicrobial resistance highlighted the importance of using antibiotics responsibly. A skit on the role of pharmacists in healthcare, along with Gidda, Bhangra and other cultural performances, added to the programme.
Various competitions were also organised, with outstanding students receiving certificates and prizes. Dr Ranaut was felicitated with a memento.
The programme concluded with a vote of thanks, reinforcing the message of patient safety, responsible medicine use and the social responsibility of pharmacy professionals.
