On January 28, 2025, the GMU-IVPN Student Club, under the College of Pharmacy, successfully organized an engaging online session titled “UK Pharmacist Licensing Journey: From NGHA to NHS.” This session was designed to provide undergraduate and postgraduate students at Gulf Medical University (GMU) with a comprehensive understanding of the pathway to practicing as a pharmacist in the United Kingdom.
The event featured Dr. Ahmed Abdeldayem, a Board-Certified Pharmacotherapy Specialist, Certified Professional in Healthcare Quality, and Clinical Pharmacist at University Hospital Southampton. With his extensive experience transitioning from the Middle East to the UK healthcare system, Dr. Abdeldayem shared valuable insights into the licensing process, career opportunities, and challenges that pharmacists face when transitioning to the UK healthcare system.
The session served as a valuable platform for students to gain firsthand knowledge on key aspects such as the Overseas Pharmacists Assessment Programme (OSPAP), registration with the General Pharmaceutical Council (GPhC) registration, pre-registration training, registration assessment exams required to qualify as a pharmacist in the UK, and career prospects within the NHS. Participants also had the opportunity to engage in a Q&A session, where they received guidance on preparing for this career move.
This session was about inspiration. Many attendees left feeling motivated and reassured that pursuing a pharmacy career abroad is not just a dream, but a realistic goal with the right guidance and preparation.
The GMU-IVPN Student Club continues to empower students, connect them with industry experts, and explore global career pathways and professional development opportunities. By hosting such events, the club continues to equip students with the resources and guidance needed to succeed in international pharmacy practice.