Twelve third-year students from the College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences (COPHS) attended a two-week international clinical training program at the University of Malaya (UM), Malaysia. This program is organized in collaboration with Ajman University’s (AU’s) Office of International Academic Affairs, reflecting the University's commitment to fostering global engagement and providing students with transformative international learning opportunities. During the program, students gain first-hand experience in both hospital and community pharmacy settings. Through visits to various hospital pharmacy sites like paediatrics, out-patient pharmacy, psychiatric pharmacy, students observe medication dispensing practices, explore pharmaceutical regulations, and develop a deeper appreciation of the pharmacist’s role in patient care. The training also involves in-class sessions and emphasizes effective communication skills required for collaboration with healthcare professionals and patient counselling, enabling students to connect classroom learning with real-world clinical practice.
This experiential learning opportunity reflects COPHS’s ongoing commitment to preparing future pharmacists for an increasingly interconnected and globally driven healthcare environment. The College extends its sincere appreciation to the Faculty of Pharmacy at UM for hosting the program and providing an enriching educational experience. Special thanks to Dr. Syireen Binti Alwi, Dr. Mary Lee, and Dr. Asfarina Binti Amir Hassan for their outstanding mentorship, support, and coordination, which contributed significantly to the success of the training. The College also expresses its gratitude to Prof. Sai HS. Boddu, Chair of the Internationalization Committee at COPHS, for his continued efforts in promoting international engagement and academic partnerships. Appreciation is further extended to Dr. Subish Palaian, Coordinator of the Office of Experiential Education, for his dedication to planning and coordinating the program. The College likewise acknowledges Dr. Richie Bhandare, Associate Professor of Pharmacy, for accompanying the students and supporting them throughout their learning journey in Malaysia.
Prof. Abeer Al-Ghananeem, Dean of COPHS, highlighted the importance of international experiential learning in shaping future healthcare professionals. She emphasized that such initiatives go beyond academic enrichment by fostering leadership, cultural awareness, adaptability, and a global outlook. Through meaningful international collaborations and immersive learning experiences, COPHS continues to equip students with the knowledge, skills, and perspectives necessary to excel in a rapidly evolving healthcare landscape. This program reaffirms AU’s dedication to internationalization and excellence in healthcare education. COPHS remains committed to expanding global partnerships and creating transformative opportunities that empower students to become competent, compassionate, and globally engaged healthcare professionals.