Monrovia, September 25, 2025 – The Ministry of Health, in collaboration with the Pharmaceutical Society of Liberia, has officially commemorated World Pharmacist Day 2025.
Celebrated under the global theme “Think Health, Think Pharmacist” and the sub-theme “Pharmacist: Guardians of Safe Medication Use and Combating Illicit Drug Abuse,” the occasion began with a grand parade from the EJS Ministerial Complex in Congo Town to the Ministry of Health, culminating in an indoor program. The ceremony brought together stakeholders from line ministries, agencies, and organizations, including the Liberia Medical and Dental Council, the Civil Service Agency of Liberia, the Pharmaceutical Importers Association of Liberia, and the Liberia Pharmacy Board, among several others.
Delivering the keynote address, Dr. Catherine T. Cooper, Chief Medical Officer of Liberia, highlighted the vital contributions of pharmacists to patient care and public health, emphasizing that their role extends far beyond dispensing medication. “Pharmacists are not just dispensers of medication; they are integral members of the healthcare team. They ensure that patients receive the right medications, in the correct doses, at the appropriate times. As the most accessible healthcare professionals, pharmacists provide invaluable guidance, education, and support to patients regarding medication management and health issues. In Liberia and around the world, pharmacists are at the forefront of improving health outcomes,” she said. Dr. Cooper further highlighted the important role pharmacists play in tackling challenges facing the healthcare sector, particularly the fight against drug and substance abuse, and stressed the need for collective action in the battle against Substance Abuse.
Also speaking, Dr. Juwe D. Kercula, President of the Pharmaceutical Society of Liberia, encouraged pharmacists across the country to remain innovative and committed to advancing the profession. He urged policymakers and the public to recognize pharmacists as essential healthcare providers. “Think Health, Think Pharmacist’ challenges the public, policymakers, and partners to empower pharmacists as vital healthcare providers. We must be given the space and resources to fully contribute through our expanded roles in clinical pharmacy, immunization, health education, pharmacovigilance, and clinical trials.”
As part of today’s celebration, the Pharmaceutical Society of Liberia launched the Pharmaceutical Society Scientific Symposium and its official website for the publication of pharmaceutical research findings. The symposium was named in honor of the late Professor P. Tapowah Kear Jr., a former Chief Pharmacist and Lecturer at the University of Liberia. The “Prof. P. Tapowah Kear Jr. Pharmaceutical Symposium” will be held annually to provide a platform for pharmacists across the country to present scientific papers and share research findings.
World Pharmacist Day is celebrated annually to recognize the invaluable contributions of pharmacists to global health. This year’s observance reflected on their integral role in safeguarding public health, promoting medication safety, and strengthening the healthcare system.