69th Annual Conference

2024 69th Annual SAPSF Conference

The South African Pharmaceutical Students' Federation (SAPSF) proudly hosted its 69th annual conference in the coastal region of Port Elizabeth. The theme of the conference was Shaping the Future of Students through Innovation, Collaboration, and Pharmaceutical Advancements. Held at the Willows Resort & Conference Centre, Gqeberha, Eastern Cape, this conference occurred from the 31st of January to the 2nd of February 2025, bringing together delegates and esteemed speakers from across the spectrum of the pharmacy profession.

The conference was organised by the PEPSA (Port Elizabeth Pharmacy Students Association) branch along with the SAPSF 2023/24 Presidential Committee. Their tenacious efforts led to the success of the conference.

SAPSF conference delegates with their Medipost bags.

📍 Day 1 – Arrival & Opening (31 January 2025):
Delegates from across the country arrived at the beautiful coastal venue—the first SAPSF conference hosted at the coast since 2015. The day began with warm welcomes, delegate registrations, and ice-breaking activities as attendees settled in for what would be an inspiring and impactful weekend.

Day 2 – Conference Sessions & Gala (1 February 2025)
The main conference officially began with an address by Ms Celeste Naude (Nelson Mandela University), who likened pharmacy students to willow trees—resilient and deeply rooted in knowledge.

Keynote Speakers & Highlights:

Dr. Stavros Nicolaou (Aspen Pharma) joined virtually, highlighting pharmacists' pivotal role during the COVID-19 pandemic and calling on students to lead change in healthcare.
Ms. Mandisa Ngcakani (ICPA) discussed ethical decision-making in community pharmacies, reminding students that "we cannot get to profits without caring for our patients."
Ms. Alice Lategan (Chair, PSSA Cape Midlands) encouraged student advocacy and professional involvement.
Lt. Col. Precious Ncayiyana opened new horizons by introducing the role of pharmacists in the military.
Ms. Refiloe Mogale (Executive Director, PSSA) presented on the advocacy work of PSSA sectors and urged students to embrace emerging pharmaceutical specialties.

The afternoon transitioned into a relaxed private beach fun day, fostering stronger inter-branch bonds.
In the evening, the gala dinner celebrated student leadership and collaboration. Key highlights included:

The launch of “The Final Chapter of the 2023/24 PresCo” by Mr. Tiko Khosa and Ms. Stacey Kundiona.

Appreciation tokens to esteemed guests, including Ms. Ntombizodwa Luwaca (Chairperson, PSSA Young Pharmacists’ Group). A closing motivation was given by Ms. Refiloe Mogale, who stressed the importance of mentorship and professional networks.

Conference speakers during their presentations.

Day 3 – Reflection, Competition & Transition (2 February 2025)
Delegates participated in a scenic hike around Nelson Mandela University, offering time for personal reflection and connection with nature.

Closing Sessions: Each branch presented its Q1 reports, showcasing its progress and initiatives.

The Clinical Skills Competition, led by Ms Vuyiseka Ntsalu (NMU), tested the delegates' knowledge and critical thinking in a fun, practical format.

Committee Handover: The day concluded with the official dissolution of the 2023/24 SAPSF Presidential Committee, led by Mr Tshepiso Masiganuga, and the election of the 2024/25 SAPSF Presidential Committee.

The following branch members were elected to serve in the new Presidential Committee:

• President: Kevin Phehla

• Deputy President: Hlumisa Mzondo

• Treasurer General: Stacey Kundiona

• Secretary General: Sello Madibela

• Deputy Secretary General: Mashiloane Tenacious

• Media and Communications Officer: Deborah Akintola

• Editor: Asitrhandile Ncokazi

• Public Initiative Officer: Mahuma Prudence

• Student Exchange Officer: Bonolo Seloana

• IPSF Contact Person: Gamuchirai Nyereyegona

• Fundraiser: Tarryn Robertson

Research and Development Officer: Maame Meribah Ansah

The 69th SAPSF Conference was a transformative event, reaffirming the values of leadership, service, and professional development in the pharmacy student community. It laid a strong foundation for the year ahead and reminded every delegate that they are not just students but future leaders of healthcare in South Africa.

For the conference pictorial highlights, see the following link: https://mwlf.pixieset.com/sarpsday1/conference/

and https://mwlf.pixieset.com/corporateday1-1/.

Deborah Akintola

SAPSF Media and Communications Officer 2024/25.