Dr MariKannan with Alpro Pharmacy and UNM BPharm students
As part of the Introduction to Social Pharmacy elective, Year 1 Bachelor of Pharmacy (BPharm) students at the University of Nottingham Malaysia (UNM) recently took part in an immersive learning session that bridges academic study with real-world healthcare practice
The session was led by module convener Dr MariKannan Maharajan and featured guest speakers from Alpro Pharmacy - Pharmacist Candace Low Yeng Ying, a Maternal and Child Health Specialist, and Mr Wong Ching Yaw, Alpro’s Business Expansion Director. Their workshop titled "New Emerging Roles for Pharmacists and Innovative Services", provided students with early exposure to the expanding scope of the pharmacy profession.
Expert Insights from Alpro Pharmacy
Pharmacist Candace shared her journey from clinical and retail roles to her current position in maternal and child health, emphasising pharmacists’ evolving role in patient-centred care, public health, and community outreach. Mr Wong complemented this with insights into Alpro Pharmacy’s innovative services, regional growth in Southeast Asia, and how the profession is adapting to meet changing healthcare needs.
From left - Wong Ching Yaw, Dr MariKannan Maharajan and Candace Low Yeng Ying
Hands-On Learning Through Scenario-Based Roleplays
Students also engaged in practical role-play exercises simulating real-life pharmacy consultations - such as advising breastfeeding mothers on medication safety and addressing concerns about counterfeit infant formula. These hands-on activities strengthened essential skills in communication, decision-making, and patient-centered empathy.
What This Means for Your Pharmacy Career
Dr Kannan highlighted, “This kind of external engagement is a cornerstone of our BPharm programme. It empowers students to see themselves as future healthcare leaders and advocates from the very start of their degree.”
Posted on 7th May 2025