College of Pharmacy at Gulf Medical University is pleased to recognize the outstanding achievement of our BPharm student, Ms. Shabana Akbar, following her appointment as Secretary of the International Pharmaceutical Students’ Federation Eastern Mediterranean Regional Office (IPSF-EMRO) for the 2026–2027 mandate.
Ms. Shabana’s appointment marks a significant milestone in her four-year journey of active engagement, leadership, and service within the pharmacy student community. Her journey began at Gulf Medical University through UPSF-GMU, where she demonstrated consistent commitment to student initiatives and activities, and was awarded a “Promising Member” certificate. Through her continued engagement with UPSF-GMU, Ms. Shabana actively contributed to initiatives aimed at supporting pharmacy students while developing her skills in leadership, communication, teamwork, and organizational coordination, which eventually provided a strong foundation for her subsequent involvement at a regional level.
During the previous mandate of 2025-2026, Ms. Shabana served as a member of the IPSF-EMRO Regional Secretary Subcommittee. This role provided her with valuable experience in regional coordination, communication, organizational responsibilities, and engagement with pharmacy students and organizations across the Eastern Mediterranean Region.
The recent appointment of Ms. Shabana as “IPSF-EMRO Secretary” for the 2026–2027 mandate represents the culmination of her continued commitment to pharmacy student leadership and professional development. Her progression from an active UPSF-GMU member at GMU to a regional leadership position within IPSF-EMRO reflects the opportunities available to students through meaningful engagement in student organizations and professional initiatives.
On behalf of the College of Pharmacy GMU, Prof. Muhammad Al-Shorbagy, Dean of the college, heartedly congratulates Ms. Shabana on her significant achievement and recognizes her dedication to advancing pharmacy student engagement at the university, regional, and international levels. Prof. Al-Shorbagy acknowledged that Ms. Shabana’s journey serves as an inspiring example of how sustained commitment, leadership, and active participation can contribute to meaningful opportunities within the pharmacy profession and reflects the strong commitment of College of Pharmacy GMU to prepare future leaders in healthcare.
Aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs):
SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being; SDG 4: Quality Education; SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals
