Uttaranchal University, HOD (Pharmacy): Dr. Tarun Interview

Dr. Tarun is the Head of the Department of Pharmacy at Uttaranchal University. With a B.Pharm. and a master’s degree in Pharmacy in Pharmaceutics, he also holds a PhD from OPJS. He has a decade's worth of work experience, during which he has worked at Dev Bhoomi Institute of Pharmacy and Research and Elder Pharmaceutical Ltd. He has organised three international conferences and numerous other workshops, seminars and symposiums in his field of work. Dr. Tarun has published 43 papers in reputed international and national journals. He has also participated in 20 different conferences, seminars and workshops, along with 17 faculty development training programs. He holds two patents to his name and has edited two books.

What is the latest program that you are offering in your institute/dept. which will help students outperform and stand apart from the crowd?

Our institute's latest pharmacy program focuses on clinical specialisations, offering in-depth training in critical areas like oncology and infectious diseases. With a strong emphasis on pharmacogenomics, students gain insights into personalised medicine, understanding how genetic factors impact drug responses. Interdisciplinary collaboration is promoted through programs integrating pharmacy with healthcare management, preparing students for leadership roles. The curriculum integrates technology, covering pharmaceutical informatics and data analytics. A global health and public health focus equips students to address healthcare challenges on a broader scale. Experiential learning, including internships and research opportunities, enhances practical skills for a competitive edge in the pharmacy field.

What are the factors that make this program the best for the students to opt?

This program excels as an optimal choice for students due to its focus on clinical specialisations like oncology and infectious diseases, providing advanced expertise. The integration of pharmacogenomics prepares students for personalised medicine, while an interdisciplinary approach to healthcare management fosters leadership skills. Emphasising technology through pharmaceutical informatics and data analytics ensures graduates are adept in the evolving landscape. A global health perspective equips students to address broader healthcare challenges. The inclusion of experiential learning opportunities and a curriculum aligned with industry trends ensure practical skills and relevance. Overall, the program offers a comprehensive, forward-thinking education, positioning students for success in the competitive field of pharmacy.

What are the best practices in the course you’re offering?

The course incorporates best practices by establishing clear learning objectives, employing active learning strategies like case studies, and integrating technology for an enriched learning experience. Interdisciplinary collaboration enhances students' holistic understanding of healthcare, while experiential learning through internships and research projects provides practical skills. Regular feedback mechanisms and diverse assessment strategies ensure a comprehensive evaluation. Emphasis on professional development, including communication and ethical skills, prepares students for the pharmacy profession. The course maintains adaptability to evolving healthcare trends and undergoes continuous improvement, ensuring its relevance and effectiveness in educating competent and versatile pharmacy professionals.

What are some valuable insights of the program that you are offering at your institute/dept.?

The program emphasizes patient-centered care, fostering effective communication and cultural competence. It promotes interprofessional collaboration, ensuring students engage seamlessly with diverse healthcare teams. A commitment to continuous professional development encourages lifelong learning and staying abreast of industry advancements. Ethical decision-making is a cornerstone, guiding students to uphold professional standards. Critical thinking skills enable effective problem-solving in varied pharmacy scenarios. Technology integration emphasizes the role of informatics and data analytics for improved patient outcomes. A global perspective prepares students for diverse healthcare landscapes. Leadership development opportunities instill innovation and change-making capabilities. Research and evidence-based practice empower students to contribute to pharmaceutical knowledge. Community engagement underscores the pharmacist's role in public health initiatives.

How does the program ensure that students are being prepared for the future?

The program ensures future readiness by maintaining an industry-relevant curriculum, integrating cutting-edge technology, and providing hands-on experiences. An emphasis on professional development fosters adaptability and a commitment to lifelong learning. Interdisciplinary collaboration prepares students for team-based healthcare approaches. Global health perspectives broaden their understanding of diverse healthcare environments. Critical thinking skills enable them to navigate evolving challenges, while a focus on ethics and social responsibility ensures preparedness for ethical dilemmas. Leadership opportunities and continuous program evaluation cultivate innovation, equipping students with the skills and mindset needed to excel in the dynamic and ever-evolving field of pharmacy practice.

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How did you train yourself/faculty to deliver this program to the students?

Faculty readiness for program delivery involves ongoing professional development through workshops, industry collaboration, and advanced degrees. Encouraging peer learning, especially in technology and pedagogy, enhances collective expertise. Specific training on technology tools ensures effective integration into the curriculum. Continuous feedback, evaluations, and incentives for professional growth foster a culture of improvement. Attendance at conferences and seminars in pharmacy education keeps faculty updated on industry trends. Mentorship programs provide guidance and support. This multifaceted approach ensures faculty possess the skills, knowledge, and collaborative mindset necessary to deliver an effective and future-ready pharmacy program to students.

How do you tend to build an industry connect with this program?

Forge industry connections through advisory boards for insights, internships, and placement programs. Engage professionals in guest lectures, workshops, and collaborative research, addressing industry challenges. Facilitate industry visits, fostering firsthand exposure and understanding. Host networking events and conferences to bridge academia and industry, fostering relationships. Seek sponsorship for events and research projects, establishing financial support and partnerships. Leverage alumni networks for mentorship and collaboration. Actively participate in industry conferences, staying updated on trends. Integrate industry-driven projects into the curriculum, providing practical experience. Ensure continuous communication and collaboration through newsletters, updates, and regular meetings. Invest in faculty professional development, aligning teaching with industry practices for a robust and mutually beneficial industry connection.

 What were the challenges that you faced while inculcating this program in your curriculum?

Integrating a new program faces challenges in resource allocation, requiring sufficient faculty, infrastructure, and technology. Developing a relevant curriculum meeting industry needs while complying with accreditation standards demands careful planning. Faculty training for new courses and technologies is crucial. Gaining stakeholder support, including faculty, administration, and industry partners, is essential. Navigating accreditation processes and ensuring compliance adds complexity. Fostering student engagement and seamless integration with existing programs necessitates innovative approaches. Establishing and maintaining strong industry partnerships for internships and placements demands time and effort. Adapting to evolving trends and continuous program evaluation are ongoing challenges that require strategic planning and commitment to improvement.

What are the types of projects that the students are working on through this program?

Students in this program undertake diverse projects, including drug development collaborations with pharmaceutical companies, pharmacogenomics research for personalized medicine, and participation in clinical trials. They engage in health outcomes research, community outreach initiatives, and Medication Therapy Management (MTM) services. Projects also span pharmacy informatics, innovative pharmacy practice models, and global health initiatives addressing healthcare disparities. Students contribute to pharmacy education research, exploring effective teaching methodologies. Quality improvement projects enhance pharmacy services, while telepharmacy initiatives improve access in remote areas. These projects collectively provide students with practical experience, fostering critical thinking and the real-world application of pharmacy knowledge.

What are the benefits and career options after pursuing this course?

Completing a pharmacy course offers numerous benefits, including clinical expertise, versatility, and direct patient interaction. Graduates can pursue various career paths, such as community or hospital pharmacist roles, specialising in clinical areas, pharmaceutical research, or pharmaceutical industry positions. Opportunities extend to pharmacy informatics, administration, academia, and public health. The profession provides global opportunities, job stability, and a chance to contribute significantly to healthcare. Graduates may choose to work in diverse settings, applying their knowledge to enhance patient outcomes, medication management, and pharmaceutical advancements, ensuring a rewarding and impactful career in the dynamic field of pharmacy.