Media Release
Mangaluru, Sep 25: The NGSM Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences (NGSMIPS), Nitte (Deemed to be University) Mangaluru, celebrated World Pharmacists Day 2026 with the theme “Empowering pharmacists for healthier futures.” As part of the celebrations, an “Pharmacists for Healthier Futures – Awareness Walk” was organised from Deralakatte to the K S Hegde Auditorium.
The walk witnessed enthusiastic participation from more than 700 pharmacy students and faculty members, who came together to create awareness about the important contributions of pharmacists to patient care, public health, and the healthcare system. The awareness walk was followed by a formal felicitation ceremony at the K S Hegde Auditorium, Deralakatte, Mangaluru.
The formal programme commenced with the invocation and lighting of the lamp, followed by the welcome address and significance of the event by Prof (Dr) R Narayana Charyulu, NGSMIPS. A special highlight of the programme was the felicitation of two eminent pharmacists from Dakshina Kannada district in recognition of their distinguished contributions to the pharmacy profession.
Prof (Dr) Jennifer Fernandes introduced the distinguished pharmacists to the audience and highlighted their professional contributions and service to the pharmacy profession and the community.
Arun Kumar Shetty of Prafful Medicals, Mangaluru, and Vinay Rai of Sri Ganesh Medicals, B C Road, were felicitated on the occasion. Following the felicitation, the distinguished pharmacists addressed the gathering and shared their experiences and perspectives on the pharmacy profession.
The programme was graced by Prof (Dr) Jayaprakash Shetty, dean, Nitte Institute of Allied Health Sciences, Mangaluru, as the chief guest. Addressing the gathering, the chief guest emphasised the importance of pharmacists as an integral part of the healthcare team and encouraged budding pharmacists to continuously enhance their professional knowledge, skills, and commitment to patient care. This was followed by the presidential address by Prof (Dr) C S Shastry, who highlighted the evolving role of pharmacists and the importance of empowering pharmacy professionals to contribute effectively to healthcare delivery.
The programme concluded with the vote of thanks proposed by Dr Uday Venkat Mateti, nodal officer, NGSMIPS, who expressed gratitude to the dignitaries, distinguished pharmacists, faculty members, students, and all those who contributed to the successful organisation of the celebration.