COVID-19 resilient pharmacy education: A grassroots work-integrated programme to strengthen the pharmaceutical workforce in Namibia

Abstract

Background: The COVID-19 pandemic has led to suspension of pharmacy education in resource-limited settings, negatively impacting pharmaceutical workforce outputs. Aims: To identify the elements of a COVID-19 resilient pharmacy education programme in Namibia and its grassroots impact on the pharmaceutical workforce and systems strengthening. Methods: An evaluation of COVID-19 resilience of the Diploma in Pharmacy programme in Namibia. Data on elements for resilience and outcomes were collected; qualitative and quantitative data were analysed descriptively. Results: The evaluation identified ten key elements for successful implementation of a COVID-19 resilient pharmacy education programme. The integration of quality improvement projects in the workplace strengthened pharmaceutical systems and workforce capacity in areas of rational medicine use and supply management of medicines. Conclusions: Whilst the COVID-19 pandemic has disrupted pharmacy education, this paper presents ten elements that, when implemented, may improve the resilience and minimise unforeseen academic interruptions during pandemics.

COVID-19 and the impact on the education of healthcare professionals across countries with a particular focus on developing countries

“…In addition to the examples Lithuania and UAE, which have already been mentioned, other examples include instigating trials of virtual platforms for teaching and practicing physical examination skills in Egypt to improve the learning experience 108 . Alongside this, faculty members altering assignments and examinations in countries to better reflect being taught remotely 107 , the Ivorian Ministry of Education, Technical and Professional Training and the Senegalese Ministry of Education establishing online platforms and resources for students 109 , and key elements being identified in Namibia for the successful implementation of robust and resilient pharmacy education approaches during the pandemic including compounding skills 110,111 . In addition, universities in South Africa sourcing ICT devices where necessary for staff and students as well as purchasing these at preferential rates, with some universities obtaining external sponsorships to help cover these costs 109,[112][113][114] .…”