Govt to revise Pharmacy Act 1967 for global educational standards

Pakistan has decided to overhaul pharmacy education and bring it in line with international standards as part of a major reform of the country’s regulatory and professional framework, 24NewsHD TV channel reported on Sunday.

Officials confirmed that the government will revise the Pharmacy Act of 1967 to align it with modern requirements and global benchmarks, marking the most significant update to the legislation in decades.

Federal Health Minister Mustafa Kamal chaired a review meeting in Islamabad, where he directed the formation of a high-level technical committee tasked with recommending essential amendments to the Act. 

The committee has been instructed to conduct a comprehensive assessment of the existing legal and institutional structures and prepare actionable proposals without delay.

During the meeting, senior officials from the Drug Regulatory Authority of Pakistan (DRAP), including the Director General of Health and the Director of Pharmacy Services, briefed the minister on the challenges facing pharmacy education, regulation, and professional training. 

It was noted that the Pharmacy Council continues to operate under the 1967 law, which no longer reflects current global standards or emerging healthcare needs.

The Health Ministry said the reform initiative aims to modernize the Pharmacy Council, fully digitalize its operations, and strengthen transparency, efficiency, and oversight within the sector. 

The minister emphasised that pharmacists play a vital role in the healthcare system and that their training must meet both national and international requirements to ensure quality medicines, patient safety, and professional competency.

Mustafa Kamal reiterated that the government is committed to restructuring the pharmacy education system, improving institutional performance, and ensuring that pharmacy graduates receive training aligned with global best practices. 

Reporter: Babar Shehzad Turk