The intensive curriculum, running from August 21 to September 12, offered the students a unique blend of theoretical knowledge and practical insights into the Hungarian pharmaceutical landscape. The schedule was meticulously crafted to cover a wide spectrum of essential topics crucial for the next generation of pharmaceutical experts.
On the first day, István Antal, Dean of the faculty, gave a presentation summarizing the history and achievements of the Semmelweis University and the Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, reviewing the characteristics of the training program and curriculum reform, as well as the results of research and developmental work.
Throughout the course, the students delved into the fundamentals of Pharmaceutical Chemistry and Analysis, gaining valuable laboratory skills in drug quality control. The principles of drug formulation and production were a key focus during the Pharmaceutical Technology sessions, providing a strong foundation in how medicines are developed and manufactured.
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A core part of the program focused on Pharmacodynamics, Clinical Pharmacokinetics, and Biopharmacy, providing essential knowledge for safe and effective medication use. Students also studied nature-derived medicines through Pharmacognosy, Pharmaceutical Botany, and Phytotherapy, linking traditional and modern approaches.
Industrial Pharmacy was introduced with a full-day visit to Meditop Pharmaceutical Ltd., where students explored laboratories, manufacturing, and Good Manufacturing Practice. They also visited EGIS Pharmaceutical Ltd.’s Scientific and Technological Center, gaining insight into the company’s history, factory operations, and testing their skills through interactive VR activities.
In addition to natural sciences, the program covered crucial topics such as Statistics for Pharmacists, Pharmacy Administration, and Pharmaceutical Management, preparing students for the multifaceted role of pharmacists in healthcare systems. The course concluded with advanced subjects such as Clinical Pharmaceutics and Pharmaceutical Communication, which emphasized patient-oriented care.
Pharmacy Administration and Pharmaceutical Management prepares students for the evolving role of pharmacists, emphasizing patient-oriented care through clinical pharmaceutics and pharmaceutical communication. Using both patient-centric teaching methods and diverse case studies, students can explore therapy optimization, adherence, safety monitoring, and off-label decisions across patient groups. This approach highlights the pharmacist’s role as both medicines’ expert and a steward of medication use, combining scientific rigor with empathic communication. – Dr. István Antal
The students concluded the program by passing a written test, after which they provided positive feedback on the academic content, industrial visits, and their cultural experience in Budapest.
The course served as an academic and cultural bridge, strengthening the collaboration between Zhejiang Chinese Medical University and Semmelweis University and fostering international professional connections for the future leaders of global pharmacy.
Directorate for International Relations and Alumni Affairs
Photos by Bálint Barta – Directorate of Communication; Directorate for International Relations and Alumni Affairs
