Al-Khidmat to Establish 200 Pharmacies in Karachi, Aims to Combat Counterfeit Medicines

KARACHI: Al-Khidmat, in its commitment to eradicating the presence of counterfeit medications, is set to launch more than 200 pharmacies across Karachi. The initiative seeks to ensure the availability of genuine, high-quality drugs at subsidized rates for patients, as announced by Amir Jamat-e-Islami (JI) Karachi, Hafiz Naeem-ur-Rehman, on Saturday.

Presently, Al-Khidmat operates 20 pharmacies in Karachi, and the organization plans to expand this network to 200 pharmacies citywide. The goal is to eliminate the threat of counterfeit medicines, offering authentic medications at affordable prices to the public.

Speaking at the launch of the 'Bano Qabil Pharmacist' program in Karachi, Hafiz Naeem-ur-Rehman emphasized the importance of this initiative. The program witnessed significant interest, with 600 pharmacy graduates participating in the aptitude test. Over 1,000 pharmacists and final-year pharmacy students initially registered for the three-month training program, leading to the closure of registrations after reaching the maximum limit due to overwhelming response.

"The 'Bano Qabil Pharmacist' training program aims to equip young pharmacy graduates with advanced clinical and communication skills. This will enable them to provide enhanced patient care, optimize medication management, develop leadership qualities, and contribute to better health outcomes, serving as a valuable resource for the community," stated Hafiz Naeem-ur-Rehman during the aptitude test.

He further revealed that Al-Khidmat, in addition to its focus on pharmacy services, is actively involved in providing IT education to approximately 25,000 youngsters through 35 training institutes in Karachi. Plans are underway to introduce skill-based education to create a knowledge-based society in Pakistan. A career guidance program for Karachi's youth is also on the horizon to help them make informed decisions about their future paths.

Director of Al-Khidmat Pharmacy Services, Syed Jamshed Ahmed, stressed the crucial role of trained pharmacists in ensuring the dispensing of genuine medicines. He highlighted the need for collaboration with other pharmacy chains, hospitals, and organizations to provide training and employment opportunities beyond Al-Khidmat's pharmacies.

Ahmed emphasized the evolving landscape of healthcare, underscoring the need for pharmacists to adapt to new challenges and opportunities. The three-month training program is viewed as a strategic investment, enhancing patient care, improving medication management, and empowering pharmacists to excel in their evolving roles.

In conclusion, Hafiz Naeem-ur-Rehman urged Al-Khidmat Pharmacy Services to explore collaborations with other healthcare entities, expanding opportunities for students who successfully clear the aptitude test, thereby contributing to the broader healthcare industry.