The Faculty of Pharmacy at SEGi University had gathered on 26 September 2023 for the 11th annual Pledge of Professionalism ceremony, and I found myself reflecting on the significance of this event. This ceremony, which symbolises the commencement of a new chapter for our incoming pharmacy students, is more than a mere tradition; it’s a wholehearted commitment to the very essence of our noble profession.
Over the past decade, we’ve witnessed remarkable transformations in the pharmacy and healthcare landscape. Pharmacists, once confined to their dispensary roles, have emerged as critical members of healthcare teams, providing expert advice on medications and disease management.
The Essence of Professionalism
Professionalism is not unique to pharmacy alone. It transcends all fields, whether in healthcare, engineering, politics, or any other discipline. It is the soul of every professional. We are only deserving of the title “professional” when our actions and behaviours align with the principles of professionalism. As the custodians of health, pharmacists bear a tremendous responsibility towards the well-being of the community. This makes professionalism in pharmacy all the more critical.
Professionalism is exemplified not just in our interactions with patients but extends to our relationships with multidisciplinary teams, peers, the general public, and fellow healthcare professionals. The way we conduct ourselves, the behaviours we exhibit, and the attitudes we uphold are all critical components of professionalism. It’s the cornerstone of building trust with patients and customers, enabling us to deliver high-quality care. Additionally, it lays the foundation for forging strong relationships with multidisciplinary teams, leading to more effective patient management.
Pledge of Professionalism: A Lifelong Commitment
With the new students of the Faculty of Pharmacy making their formal pledge, they have now embarked on a lifelong commitment to the profession. This commitment encompasses values such as honesty, integrity, and compassion. It is not just a mere recitation; it symbolises the beginning of your journey towards becoming a healthcare professional.
Over the next four years, the students will not only acquire pharmacy knowledge but also enhance their behaviours and attitudes under the guidance of our esteemed faculty. Trustworthiness, honesty, and competence are attributes that you must continually cultivate, for they reflect the pharmacy profession to the public, building trust and confidence within the community.
Pharmacy, as a healthcare profession, offers a unique opportunity to save and change lives. It is a privilege and a responsibility that demands the highest level of professionalism. Our students’ real journey as professional pharmacists begins now, and our faculty is committed to supporting you along this path. The pledge you made at the beginning of your studies will resonate in your hearts and instil a sense of pride and commitment to your profession.
A Decade of Excellence
Our commitment to professionalism extends beyond the Pledge of Professionalism ceremony. It is a core value woven into the fabric of SEGi University. As we celebrate the 11th anniversary of the Bachelor of Pharmacy programme, we can proudly say that our faculty has excelled in providing students with the knowledge, training, and competencies necessary for job readiness. Graduates have gone on to work in various sectors, including hospitals, communities, and industries, both nationally and internationally.
The pledging ceremony held on 26 September also marked another historic occasion, the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Sunway Multicare Pharmacy. It’s an honour for SEGi University to partner with a pharmacy chain that has grown to become one of the largest in Malaysia, offering vital prescription services across the nation.
The partnership between SEGi University and Sunway Multicare Pharmacy exemplifies our dedication to sustainability and corporate responsibility, benefitting our students and future generations. Through the Sunway Multicare Pharmacy Scholarship, students will be supported financially and gain valuable internship opportunities, ensuring our high-quality SEGi University graduates enhance Sunway Multicare Pharmacy’s competitive edge in professional pharmacy services.
A Commitment to the Future
The Pledge of Professionalism ceremony serves as a reminder that professionalism is not just an ideal; it’s a commitment. This commitment extends to all facets of our lives, professional and personal. As you embark on this remarkable journey, remember the significance of your role in safeguarding the health and well-being of the community.
As the Dean of the Faculty of Pharmacy, I express my sincere appreciation to all devoted educators and the diligent staff for their unwavering dedication to nurturing capable graduates. It is their tireless endeavours that have brought us to this significant milestone.
I am truly grateful to our students for choosing SEGi University to embark on this journey to become competent and professional pharmacists. Your pledge today is a promise that must endure throughout your entire professional life, and I am confident that you will uphold these values with pride. Cultivate the highest level of knowledge and skills during your time at SEGi so that you may serve your patients and the community with competence.
About the Author:
PROFESSOR DR TEY KIM KUAN
Dean, Faculty of Pharmacy, SEGi University
Prof. Tey Kim Kuan, Dean of the Faculty of Pharmacy and Head of Academic Quality Assurance and Enhancement at the University, holds a Bachelor of Pharmacy from the University of Bradford and a Doctor of Philosophy from the University of London. With over 30 years of experience in pharmacy across various sectors, including hospital, community, and industrial pharmacy, she has been in pharmacy education for 17 years. Prof. Tey has conducted and supervised multidisciplinary research in pharmacy practice and education, serving as a judge at local and international research conferences and frequently participating as a speaker, knowledge partner, or session chair. She has also held roles in professional organisations such as the International Society for Pharmaceutical Engineering (ISPE) Malaysia and has served on committees appointed by the Ministry of Health and MIDA under the 11th Malaysia Plan, 2016-2020 (RMK11).