FAPA 2024: Empowering the Next Generation of Asian Pharmacists

In a vibrant celebration of progress, collaboration, and innovation, the 30th Congress of the Federation of Asian Pharmaceutical Associations (FAPA) unfolded from October 31 to November 3, 2024, in the bustling city of Seoul, South Korea. Hosted by the Korean Pharmaceutical Association (KPA), the milestone event, themed “Next Generation Pharmacists in Asia: Pharmacists’ Integrated Role to Enhance Care and Pharmaceutical Science,” brought together pharmacists, researchers, and leaders from across Asia to shape the future of pharmaceutical practice.

Grand Opening and Recognition

The congress opened with a spectacular flag parade, showcasing pharmacists from 25 participating nations. Each delegation’s entrance was met with enthusiastic applause, setting an atmosphere of unity and collaboration. With around 2000 pharmacists in attendance, this year’s congress is the largest in FAPA history.

Dr. Yolanda R. Robles, President of FAPA, welcomed attendees with inspiring remarks, highlighting FAPA’s 60th anniversary as a symbol of Asian pharmacists’ solidarity. She emphasized the importance of sharing practical knowledge, advancing collaboration across healthcare sectors, and preparing pharmacists for technological innovation and future challenges.

Chairman Choi Kwang-hoon, head of the FAPA 2024 Organizing Committee, spoke on the evolving role of pharmacists amidst rapid changes, stating, “FAPA has symbolized cooperation and solidarity among Asian pharmacists, serving as a platform for growth through exchange. This year’s theme focuses on the next generation of pharmacists. Amidst rapid technological innovations, the pharmacy profession is facing significant changes and new challenges. This conference aims to guide the next generation toward leadership, expand the scope of pharmacy practice, and lay a new foundation for collaboration and growth. Despite differences in health systems and cultures, our shared goal of improving patient quality of life unites us. May this gathering foster advancements in pharmaceutical care beyond networking.”

A message from Korea’s President Yoon Suk-yeol, delivered by Vice Minister of Health and Welfare Park Min-soo, underscored the critical role of pharmacists during the COVID-19 pandemic and the government’s commitment to supporting advancements in pharmaceutical sciences and public health.

The opening ceremony also featured celebratory performances by traditional Korean artists and Korean girl group ‘Kiss of Life.’

A key highlight of the opening ceremony was the unveiling of a new member organization, the Mongolian Association of United Pharmaceutical Organizations (MAUPO). Distinguished pharmacists from FAPA member associations received recognition during an awarding ceremony. For more information on the prestigious FAPA 2024 Awards and the talented individuals and organizations being recognized this year, be sure to check out our detailed article. This piece delves into the winners’ inspiring stories, highlights from the ceremony, and the significant impact of their work in various fields. Don’t miss out on this comprehensive overview of the FAPA 2024 Awards – click here to read more!

Insightful Sessions and Engaging Exhibitions

The four-day event offered a wealth of sessions and presentations addressing critical topics in modern pharmacy. Researchers and experts from FAPA’s seven sections showcased recent findings through oral presentations and poster sessions, contributing to a growing body of pharmaceutical knowledge in Asia. The event underscored the critical role of pharmacists in adapting to technological changes and advancing healthcare systems.

The exhibition hall served as a hub for innovation and networking, featuring the latest pharmaceutical products and services. Participants had the opportunity to explore cutting-edge solutions, share ideas, and build partnerships with industry leaders, healthcare professionals, and government representatives.

The event highlighted the development of the FAPA Roadmap 2023,urging all Asian pharmacists to concentrate on three key priority areas to guide their collective efforts over the next decade.

• Patient Safety and Safe Healthcare

• Pharmaceutical Systems Strengthening towards Universal Health Care

• Health Promotion & Wellness 

This AVP highlights the steps FAPA are taking together with their members to achieve these goals. Watch the video to learn more about how FAPA is working to make a lasting impact on healthcare in Asia. 

Closing Ceremony and Future Prospects

The closing ceremony celebrated outstanding achievements and looked toward the future. The newly introduced FAPA Young Pharmacist Award was presented to young pharmacy leaders who have shown excellence and leadership early in their careers. This award aims to encourage more young pharmacists to contribute to developing the pharmacy profession in our region through FAPA initiatives., symbolizing the commitment to nurturing future leaders in pharmaceutical sciences. – click here to read more about the awards – click here to read more!

FAPA also recognized the hard work of its members, presenting awards to pharmacists who made significant contributions to pharmacy practice and the development of FAPA initiatives.

A special highlight was the symbolic handover of the FAPA flag from KPA to the next host, signaling the countdown to the 31st FAPA Congress in Bangkok, Thailand.

The congress concluded with a vibrant FAPA Gala Dinner, celebrating Asia’s cultural diversity through performances and presentations from participating countries. It was a fitting finale, embodying the spirit of unity, knowledge, and progress.

 

Looking Ahead

The 30th FAPA Congress in Seoul not only commemorated FAPA’s 60-year legacy but also paved the way for the future of pharmacy in Asia. By addressing pressing issues, fostering collaboration, and empowering the next generation, the event reaffirmed pharmacists’ role in advancing healthcare systems.

The pharmaceutical community now looks forward to FAPA 2026 in Bangkok, Thailand on November 3-7, 2026. The enthusiasm and momentum from Seoul continue to inspire pharmacists across Asia, driving innovation and improving healthcare for all. The 31st FAPA Congress in Bangkok will discuss key issues such as cutting-edge technologies such as AI that are transforming patient care, the role of pharmacists in telehealth services, and modern applications of traditional Thai medicines.

FAPA 2024 – Reschedule

We would like to share the updated dates of the upcoming 30th FAPA Congress (FAPA 2024) to be held in Seoul, South Korea, this October 2024. 

Please be informed that the congress dates have been moved one day later (from October 28 Monday – November 1 Friday to October 29 Tuesday – November 2 Saturday) in order to align with the traditional schedule for hosting the FAPA Congress. 

 

Highlights from the 29th FAPA Congress in Taipei

In a symphony of culture, knowledge, and celebration, the 29th Congress of the Federation of Asian Pharmaceutical Associations (FAPA) unfolded from October 24-28, 2023, in the vibrant city of Taipei, Taiwan. Hosted by the Federation of Taiwan Pharmacists Associations (FTPA), this momentous event, themed “Health Systems Resilience, Security and Equity: Pharmacists Can Help,” marked a significant milestone as the first FAPA Congress within just a year of the previous gathering.

Grand Opening and Recognition

The congress commenced with a spectacular performance by the Chio-Tian Folk Drums & Art Troupe, setting the stage for a week of innovation and collaboration. Representatives from member association countries, adorned in their national attire, added a kaleidoscope of color to the event. Mr. Chin-Shun Huang, President of FTPA, Ms. Cathleen Chan, Chairperson of the executive committee, and Dr. Yolanda Robles, FAPA President, delivered warm welcome speeches. Taiwan President Tsai Ing-wen graced the occasion, delivering an inspiring opening speech and officially inaugurating the congress alongside honored guests.

One of the highlight of the opening ceremony was the introduction of a new member association, the Nepal Pharmaceutical Association (NPA). Distinguished pharmacists from FAPA member associations received recognition during an awarding ceremony. The prestigious FAPA Lifetime Achievement Award was bestowed upon Mr. Chin-Shun Huang of Taiwan, while FAPA Section Awards were presented to the following outstanding individuals: Ms. Gina Koay Wan Lee from Malaysia (Community Pharmacy Section), Dr. Rochapon Wacharotayankun from Thailand (Industrial Pharmacy and Marketing Section), Emeritus Prof. Paraidathathu Thomas from Malaysia (Pharmacy Education Section), Prof. Wong Tin Wui (Scientific Section), Dr. Imelda G. Peña (Social and Administrative Pharmacy Section). 

Cultural Extravaganza, Keynote Address and Welcome Reception

The cultural richness continued with a performance from the E.Sun Bank Choir, setting the stage for a speech by Minister of Ministry of Health and Welfare Parliamentary Secretary, Wang, Pi-sheng. Dr. Yusuke Nakamura, President of the National Institute of Biomedical Innovation, Health, and Nutrition, delivered a captivating Keynote Lecture, adding a scientific dimension to the cultural and celebratory atmosphere.

The Welcome Reception for FAPA 2023 in Taiwan, themed “Crazy Night,” began with a virtual sky lantern event for pharmacist wishes, graced by Taipei Mayor Chiang Wan-an. The atmosphere was further enhanced with a lively live band performance, encouraging participants to join in the dance floor festivities.

Insightful Sessions and Engaging Exhibitions

The five-day event was packed with sessions covering diverse topics, the topics cover a diverse array of subjects, including AI-assisted precision healthcare, herbal Chinese medicine in hyperlipidemia, evolving drug regulatory management in Taiwan and Australia, pharmacists’ roles in pandemic prevention and control, pharmaceutical workforce development, big data and AI applications, evidence-informed pharmaceutical policies, ensuring medical product quality, promoting pharmaceutical product development in Asia, pharmacotherapy in critical diseases, access to medicines and drug shortages in Asian countries, advanced pharmaceutical services and patient safety, COVID-19 pharmacotherapy, pharmacists’ role in primary healthcare, the trend of immunotherapy, pharmacotherapy for chronic diseases, hospital and clinical pharmacy, pharmacists’ roles in maternal and child health, addressing health inequities, and the experiences of selected Asian countries in pharmaceutical practices. Researchers from the seven sections of FAPA presented their findings through oral and poster presentations, contributing to the wealth of pharmaceutical knowledge.

The congress provided ample opportunities for participants to network and explore potential collaborations and partnerships. Attendees were encouraged to connect, share ideas, and foster relationships that could potentially shape the future of pharmaceutical endeavors across Asia and beyond.

The congress’s exhibition showcased the latest pharmaceutical products and services, providing a platform for companies and organizations worldwide. The FAPA Booth allowed attendees to express their aspirations for pharmacy in their respective countries, fostering a global dialogue.

Closing Ceremony Celebrations

The closing ceremony marked the introduction of the FAPA Young Pharmacist Award, presented to Ms. Waranyu Lengwiriyakul from Thailand, a symbol of encouragement for the rising generation in pharmaceutical sciences. The 24 International Travel Grant Scholars received recognition and support from the FAPA Foundation and FTPA, underscoring the commitment to nurturing future leaders.

In appreciation for the diligent organization of the congress within a year, FAPA expressed gratitude to FTPA by presenting a painting titled “Friendship Blossom,” crafted by artist Ms. Carla Chua.

The symbolic turnover of the FAPA flag from FTPA to KPA marked the conclusion, hinting at the exciting prospects of the 30th FAPA Congress set to take place in Seoul, South Korea in 2024. The FAPA Gala dinner was a celebration of cultural diversity, featuring presentations from participating Asian countries, was a fitting finale to this celebration of pharmaceutical excellence.

In summary, the 29th FAPA Congress in Taipei served as a platform for knowledge sharing, recognition of excellence, and the forging of new connections, ultimately contributing to the advancement of pharmaceutical practices in the region.

Looking Forward to the Future

As the curtains fell on FAPA 2023, the anticipation lingered for the FAPA’s 60th anniversary and the 30th FAPA Congress in South Korea in 2024. The event showcased not just the advancements in pharmaceutical sciences but also the spirit of collaboration and cultural diversity that defines FAPA’s legacy. Until the next rendezvous, the pharmaceutical community eagerly awaits new horizons and continued progress.