JANUARY 2026 Edition 5, November 2026 PSSA Southern Gauteng at the SAPC Conference
02 Table Of Contents 03 Shaping the Future of Pharmacy: Highlights from the NPC 2026 Conference 04 Spotlight on Pharmacy's Pioneers at SAPC Conference 06 Rexall Nasal Douche 07 Celebrating 80 years of the Pharmaceutical Society of South Africa 09 PSSA Southern Gauteng Branch Annual Parkrun Event 12 Mastering CPD Planning and Submissions for Pharmacy Support Personnel
03 Shaping the Future of Pharmacy: Highlights from the NPC 2026 Conference Advancing Pharmacy towards 2050 PREPARED BY: PUMZA HLEKANE The SAPC President, Mr Phasha welcomed the enthusiastic delegates who filled the auditorium of the ICC . Opening session speakers highlighted a 100-day readiness check for disaster preparedness. Sessions were split into the 4 main sectors: Hospital, Manufacturing / Wholesale, Academia and Community with delegates streaming to the various allocated halls. Ms Mlindazwe, Dr M. Eksteen and Ms I Naidu’s overviews on Collaborative Professional Care, wherein the patient becomes the beneficiary. Amid pressures from “Google patients”, antimicrobial resistance once again took the centre stage. Points to ponder on: Do community pharmacists understand their role in AMR? Can more real examples be shared regularly through webinars? Dr Mariet Eksteen discussed task shifting (which WHO calls task sharing) In order to enable equitable use of available resources, this must be implemented as supported by regulations and pharmacy scopes of practice. The glaring truth is that in South Africa we have 3.8 pharmacists per 100 000 vs the 12 per 100 000 in developed countries. Credentialing and workforce alignment are necessary tools that link education and employment by matching certificates, degrees, and micro-credentials to real-time labor market demands. Points to ponder on: Are all pharmacy sectors equally resourced? How do we rope in Pharmacy Support Personnel in these discussions? Delegates welcomed Minister Aaron Motsoaledi, a pragmatic, fierce proponent of pharmacists’ involvement in the patient care value chain in NHI. Ms Mbatha (a psychologist), Dr Sham Moodley and Dr Nokuthula Dlamini highlighted the plight of mental health issues in pharmacy. “Who takes care of the carer? “ Points to ponder on: Can we host Regular webinars as pharmacy associations to assist pharmacists and their support teams to reach for help? The third plenary session (presented by Dr Y Khan, Dr P Reddy and Ms v Gokool-Sewram); AI must be technology enabled, but still human-led (pharmacist-led). The sessions on the Stewardship of medicine that are prone to abuse focussed on Codeine, Cannabis, Narcotics in Pain therapy and GLP-1s. Prof Sean Chetty debunked the myth that Tramadol is safe, citing that over-prescribing is not helpful to the patients. He presented non-opioid painkillers as better options in controlling neuropathic pain. Prof Francois Venter highlighted associated weight gain amongst HIV positive patients, warning that unexpected NCDs (non-communicable diseases) are on the rise. He further advises against the start-stop use of GLP-1s. Even though the high price of GLP-1 medication is a deterrent – upcoming approved clones and generics give hope. Contraband GLP-1 medication found in the aesthetic industry pose a safety concern. The Commonwealth Pharmacists Association (CPA) organised a practical session on sore throat management focussing on antimicrobial stewardship. Six pre-trained South African facilitators were assigned to each of the eight delegates’ tables. The NHI session reminded us that access to health is more than a script. We should holistically view how disruption of work negatively contributes to the economy and how follow-ups on chronic patients assist disease management. Plenary sessions on day 3 concluded with the FIP president highlighting the empowerment FIP offers to the profession. In between these sessions delegates met at the exhibition halls. Conversations were abuzz with many reunions, poster presentations, teas and lunches. Pharmacists substituted the white coats, for the glitz of the gala dinner. That’s it, folks!!!#NPC2026 is done and dusted. Congrats to the SAPC team.
04 Spotlight on Pharmacy's Pioneers at SAPC Conference PREPARED BY: PSSA NATIONAL SAPC National Pioneer Pharmacy Awards During the Gala dinner of the 4th National Pharmacy Conference held from 11 to 13 October 2026 by the SAPC”. by the SAPC, the winners of the National Pioneer Pharmacy Awards were announced. National Health Impact Recognition Award The PSSA congratulates Dr Precious Matsotso, the winner of the inaugural National Health Impact Recognition Award. This honour is bestowed on a South African Pharmacy professional who has made an extraordinary contribution to public health in South Africa and whose impact cuts across the health system and goes beyond their practice as a pharmacist. The PSSA and Dr Matsotso have a long history of working together from her days at the Medicines Control Council (now SAHPRA) and as the DG of Health, and she has always remained a pharmacist at heart. Dr Matsotso is a well-deserved first recipient of this award. The PSSA is proud to celebrate our members' outstanding achievements, all of whom feature among the winners below. These achievements reflect the expertise and commitment of PSSA members, who continue to make a difference in our profession and the communities we serve. These achievements serve as reminders of the talent, excellence, and leadership within our membership, and the impact they are making in pharmacy. Congratulations to each of our members on this well-deserved recognition, which inspires us all and makes us proud to be part of the Society. Their efforts have not gone unnoticed, and receiving recognition from one’s peers is among the highest honours a pharmacy professional can achieve during their career. Legacy Award winners Prof Andy Gray – Fellow and Honorary Life Member of the PSSA, serves on the PSSA NEC Prof Cassim Dangor – Fellow of the PSSA Mr Johan van Niekerk Professional Category Awards Academic Pharmacist Award Prof Rajesh Vagiri Community Pharmacist Award Mr Johannes Ravele – Fellow and Deputy-President of the PSSA Public Sector Institutional Award and Overall winner Dr Martlie Mocke-Richer – Fellow of the PSSA Future Pharmacist Award Mr Mahlorhi Baloyi From the 4th NPC programme the following winners were also announced: Research Award Hospital Ms Ama Annor Research Award Manufacturing and Wholesale Mr Handsome Ndlovu Research Award Pharmacy Practice Young Scientist Ms Danielle Hope Fourie Research Award Pharmaceutical Sciences Scientist Ms Simoné Heuer Research Award Poster Presentation Day 1 Ms Lebogang Molepo Young
05 Work-Based Learning 360°: Strengthening Partnerships for Pharmacy Practice PREPARED BY: KIARA SUDU Attending my first South African Pharmacy Council Conference was a valuable opportunity to learn from colleagues, share experiences and reflect on my role in pharmacy education. As an academic involved in coordinating work-based learning, I was especially interested in “Workbased learning 360°: A workshop with stakeholders from all sectors”, chaired by Ms Lorraine Thom and Dr Teri-Lynne Fogarty. The session brought together perspectives from academia, regulators, government, hospital and community pharmacy, training providers and students. I valued hearing from people who experience work-based learning from different perspectives. Coordinating placements involves balancing learning outcomes, site capacity, assessment requirements and student needs. Hearing workplace and student perspectives encouraged me Taking time to explain a decision, involve a student in an to think more about what makes a placement worthwhile for appropriate task or provide specific feedback can make a everyone involved, especially for the student and the meaningful difference. Exposure to different sectors also preceptor who supports their learning. helps students appreciate the range of roles within What stood out for me was the shared responsibility for pharmacy and develop communication, teamwork and preparing students for practice. Universities provide the professional judgement. foundation; however, preceptors play an essential role in These insights are useful for pharmacy professionals who assisting to bridge the gap between theoretical learning and support students in the workplace. Better communication practical application. Keeping communication open between with universities and support for preceptors could help all three groups can help address difficulties before they make placements more useful and manageable. Giving affect the learning experience. One of my main takeaways students opportunities to apply their knowledge under was the importance of clear expectations. Being present in a supervision can also help them recognise their limitations pharmacy does not, on its own, ensure learning. and understand when to seek assistance, which is important for safe patient care. At the University of the Witwatersrand, we are committed to providing meaningful work-based learning experiences through our programme and partnerships with placement sites. PSSA Southern Gauteng could build on these discussions by bringing universities, preceptors, employers and students together to share challenges and practical approaches that have worked. CPD sessions on supervision, feedback and assessment would be useful, while the Golden Mortar could provide a platform for sharing placement experiences and recognising those who contribute to training. Thank you to the PSSA Southern Gauteng Branch for sponsoring my attendance. It was a rewarding first SAPC Conference, and I came away with many valuable lessons and new perspectives.
06 m m r r a a a c c y A y ha Ph Ar e P e rc ch h h t t hi iv m m ve es o o s r Fr F PREPARED BY: LYNETTE TERBLANCHE Rexall Nasal Douche History: Also known as a Birmingham (or Bermingham) nasal douche, this glass medical tool dates from the late 19th century (Victorian era) to the mid-20th century and served as an early precursor to the modern neti pot*. Function: The nasal douche was used to flush or irrigate the nasal passages with a saline or medicinal solution for colds, catarrh, or sinus congestion. Collectability: Today, these intact glass pieces, with their original branded boxes (such as Rexall, Boots, or Kress & Owen), are mostly antique medical curiosities or collectables rather than functional health devices. *The neti pot is a type of saline nasal irrigation (SNI) treatment. The user fills a neti pot with a saltwater solution, tilts the head forward, and pours it into one nostril. The liquid enters one nostril and exits the other. With roots in Indian Ayurvedic medicine, nasal irrigation and treatments for administering irrigation were first introduced to Western medicine in The Lancet in 1902. Since then, research has shown that SNI effectively reduces congestion from various causes, including when using neti pots. However, the FDA warns that incorrect use of neti pots and other sinus-rinsing devices, including squeeze bottles, battery-operated pulsed water devices, and bulb syringes, is linked to a higher risk of infection. NETI POT REXALL NASAL DOUCHE
07 Celebrating 80 years of the Pharmaceutical Society of South Africa PREPARED BY: DR STEPHANIE LEIGH The Pharmaceutical Society of South Africa (PSSA) celebrates its 80th anniversary in 2026. This milestone provides an opportunity to acknowledge the Society’s contribution to pharmacy and to reflect on our responsibilities as members of the profession. It is also an occasion to recognise the many pharmacists who have contributed their time, expertise and leadership to the Society since its establishment in 1946. The anniversary celebration at SAPHEX on 25 March 2026 brought together pharmacists, professional leaders and healthcare stakeholders. In his keynote address, PSSA President Professor Renier Coetzee reflected on the theme, “Honouring the Past, Strengthening the Present, Shaping the Future of Pharmacy”. This provided a fitting focus for an occasion that recognised past contributions while considering the profession’s continued development. The programme included reflections on the Society’s history, alongside messages from the International Pharmaceutical Federation, the Minister of Health, and representatives of regulatory and professional organisations. These contributions acknowledged the PSSA’s role within the wider healthcare community and the importance of collaboration in advancing pharmacy practice. A poetry performance brought a personal dimension to the proceedings, reflecting on pharmacists’ responsibilities towards patients and society. An anniversary of this nature also encourages reflection on what sustains a professional society. For the PSSA, its members are central to that discussion. The willingness of pharmacists to serve on committees, contribute to professional debate, support colleagues and participate in branch activities gives practical meaning to the Society’s work. Much of this takes place alongside demanding professional and personal commitments, and deserves recognition. For us in the Southern Gauteng Branch, the anniversary is an opportunity to consider how we contribute to this work. Our branch provides a setting in which pharmacists from different areas of practice can exchange experiences, discuss common concerns and learn from one another. These relationships matter, particularly when colleagues are faced with difficult decisions or changes in their working environments. As we look ahead, there is value in considering which aspects of our professional heritage we need to preserve and where change is required. Scientific knowledge, practice environments and patient needs will continue to develop. Our response requires ongoing learning, careful judgement and a willingness to engage with colleagues across all healthcare spheres. The PSSA’s 80th anniversary is therefore both a celebration and a moment for reflection. We congratulate the Society on this achievement and thank those whose service has sustained it.
08 A Glimpse into the Future: Reflections from the 4th National Pharmacy Conference PREPARED BY: ESTHER SHUPING The 4th National Pharmacy Conference in Durban brought These approaches have the potential to reduce medicine together hundreds of pharmacists under the inspiring theme, review timelines while maintaining robust standards for "A Glimpse into the Future: Advancing Pharmacy Towards safety, efficacy, and quality. Such advancements could 2050." The conference provided a valuable platform to improve patient access to important therapies and discuss the current challenges facing the profession while strengthen healthcare systems. exploring innovative solutions that will shape the future of The conference also showcased emerging and advanced pharmacy practice in South Africa. drug therapies for priority diseases. These sessions A recurring theme throughout the conference was the growing highlighted the remarkable pace of pharmaceutical threat posed by counterfeit and illegal medicines. Speakers innovation and reinforced the need for pharmacists to highlighted the risks these products present to public health, continuously update their knowledge to support optimal including treatment failure, adverse events, and loss of patient outcomes. As treatment options become more confidence complex, pharmacists will play an increasingly important in healthcare systems. Pharmacists were identified as critical stakeholders in combating this challenge role in ensuring the safe and effective use of medicines. through vigilant procurement practices, patient education, In reflecting on the conference, it is evident that the and the reporting of suspicious products. future of pharmacy in South Africa is filled with both Another significant issue discussed was the shortage of challenges and opportunities. The profession must internship and community service opportunities available to continue to evolve in response to changing healthcare pharmacy graduates. This challenge continues to create needs, uncertainty for students entering the profession and may developments, and workforce demands. The conference impact the future pharmacy workforce. An encouraging served as a reminder that pharmacists are not only proposal presented was the possibility of the Department of custodians of medicine safety but also key contributors to Health partnering with the private sector to provide healthcare innovation and patient-centred care. As the community service posts. Such a model could create profession looks towards 2050, collaboration, continuous additional opportunities for graduates while incentivising learning, and forward-thinking leadership will be essential private-sector organisations to increase internship intake, to ensuring that pharmacy remains at the forefront of knowing they may retain these pharmacists during their improving health outcomes for all South Africans. community service year. This collaborative approach has the potential to strengthen workforce planning and improve access to pharmaceutical services across the country. The conference workshops focused extensively on pharmacy education and workforce development. Discussions centred on opportunities to streamline and standardise work-based learning programmes across all pharmacy schools. The aim is to ensure that pharmacy graduates are equipped not only with theoretical knowledge but also with the practical competencies required in the workplace. These conversations highlighted the importance of producing practice-ready graduates who can confidently contribute to patient care from the beginning of their careers. Regulatory innovation was also a key topic. Discussions on regulatory reliance pathways provided valuable insight into how regulatory authorities can leverage assessments conducted by trusted international agencies to support more efficient decision-making. technological advancements, regulatory
09 PSSA Southern Gauteng Branch Annual Parkrun Event PREPARED BY: DR ZELNA BOOTH On 19 September 2026, the PSSA Southern Gauteng Branch members convened for the annual Wits Parkrun event. In a fun-filled morning promoting health, wellness and camaraderie, members of the Pharmaceutical Society of South Africa (PSSA) Southern Gauteng Branch joined Wits Pharmacy students to participate in a Wits parkrun event. The event brought together pharmacy professionals and future pharmacists in a relaxed and welcoming environment, providing an opportunity to connect beyond the academic and professional setting. The morning was characterised by enthusiasm, energy and plenty of encouragement as participants took on the 5 km parkrun, whether walking, jogging or running at their own pace. Beyond the physical activity, the event provided a valuable opportunity for networking, strengthening relationships and fostering a sense of community among members of the pharmacy profession and students. The initiative also highlighted the importance of promoting healthy lifestyles and physical well-being, reinforcing the role of pharmacists not only as healthcare professionals but also as advocates for health promotion and disease prevention. By participating in community-based wellness activities, pharmacy professionals can lead by example and encourage healthier lifestyle choices. Most importantly, the event demonstrated the value of bringing together different generations of the pharmacy profession, strengthening connections between established practitioners and the next generation of pharmacists. With smiles, shared experiences and a wonderful spirit of togetherness, the morning was a reminder that building a strong pharmacy community extends beyond the workplace and lecture halls. A big thank you to everyone who participated and helped make the event such an enjoyable experience. We look forward to many more opportunities to connect, stay active and celebrate the pharmacy profession together!
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