English Textbooks
Most of the
textbooks and academic resources used in pharmacy education are written in
English. These books are often authored by both Bangladeshi and foreign writers.
Since pharmacy is a science with universal principles, English serves as a
common language for academic discourse. This makes it essential for students to
have a strong command of English to fully understand and absorb these
materials. When a pharmacy students learn English very well, then he or she can
do better easily in this field.
Writing Skills for Exams
Writing
skills in English are essential for pharmacy students, especially when it comes
to performing well in exams. In pharmacy, students must demonstrate their
understanding of complex topics. Proficient writing skills allow students to
clearly explain their knowledge, making their answers more comprehensible to
examiners. A well-structured response in English shows a logical flow of ideas
and understanding of the subject matter. It will ensure good marks in the examination.
Presentations
According
to the university syllabus, pharmacy students have to attend a presentation in most
of the courses. English plays a key role in ensuring the success of these
presentations. Pharmacy students often need to explain complicated topics such
as drug mechanisms, clinical trials, or pharmaceutical formulations. Mastery of
English ensures that students can articulate their ideas clearly, avoiding
confusion.
A
successful presentation requires engaging the audience and making the content
understandable. Students with strong English skills can tailor their language
to suit the audience, simplifying complex ideas when needed or adding detail
for more advanced listeners. This flexibility ensures that the presentation is
both informative and engaging.
Viva Examinations
Viva
examinations, or oral exams, are a crucial part of pharmacy education, where
students are required to verbally demonstrate their knowledge of pharmaceutical
concepts, processes, and applications. During a viva, pharmacy students
must articulate their thoughts clearly and precisely. Clear communication in
English can create a good impression in front of the viva board.
Online Courses
Online
courses have become an essential part of modern education, including pharmacy
studies. Many online courses, especially those offered by international
universities or platforms like Coursera, edX, and Udemy, are conducted in
English. Pharmacy students must be proficient in English to understand
lectures, course materials, and assignments. English allows students to access
a broader range of high-quality online resources, many of which are created by
top experts in the field. Online courses often require interaction through
discussion boards, emails, or virtual meetings. Students need good English
writing and speaking skills to communicate effectively with instructors and
peers. Whether asking questions, participating in group discussions, or
submitting assignments, clear communication in English is crucial to getting
the most out of the course.
Networking, International Conferences,
Workshops, and Seminars
Networking,
participating in international conferences, workshops, and seminars are
critical for pharmacy students and pharmacists to expand their knowledge, stay
updated with advancements, and build professional connections. English, being
the global language of science and medicine, plays a key role in these
interactions. English is the primary language used in most international
conferences, workshops, and seminars. Pharmacy students need strong
English-speaking and writing skills to actively participate, communicate
effectively with peers, and understand presentations. Whether it’s asking
questions, participating in discussions, or presenting their research, English
proficiency ensures smooth and clear communication.
Pharmaceutical Industry Jobs
In the
pharmaceutical industry, English is a critical skill, particularly for jobs at
headquarters. These roles often involve a wide range of responsibilities, from
research and development to regulatory affairs, marketing, and global
communications. Employees must be proficient in English to collaborate
effectively with colleagues from different countries and cultures. Headquarters-based
roles often require interaction with regulatory bodies like the U.S. Food and
Drug Administration (FDA), European Medicines Agency (EMA), and other global
agencies. Most regulatory documentation, scientific research papers, clinical
trial reports, drug development data, communication, and submissions are
conducted in English. Proficiency in English ensures that employees can prepare
accurate reports, communicate with authorities, and comply with international
regulations efficiently.
Research Collaboration with Foreigners
Research
collaboration is a key aspect of the academic and pharmaceutical field,
allowing students and professionals to work with international experts and
institutions. English is the predominant language of scientific communication
worldwide. In international research collaborations, it is essential for
reading, writing, and discussing research findings. Pharmacy students who are
proficient in English can effectively contribute to research projects, share
insights, and participate in scientific discussions with foreign collaborators.
Collaborative
research often leads to joint publications in international journals. Pharmacy
students involved in such collaborations must be able to write research papers,
prepare abstracts, and create presentations in English. Proficiency in English
ensures that their contributions are well-communicated and meet the standards
required for high-impact publications.
Study Abroad
Many of our
Bangladeshi students pursue their higher study abroad which significantly
enhance the academic and professional prospects of pharmacy students. English,
being the primary language of instruction and communication in international
academic institutions, plays a crucial role in this experience. Engagement in
classroom discussions, seminars, and group projects is an integral part of
study. These activities are conducted in English, and students need to be able
to articulate their thoughts, ask questions, and contribute to debates.
Global Career Opportunities
English is
a key asset for pharmacy students seeking to build a global career. In the
pharmaceutical industry, where many companies operate internationally, English
proficiency opens doors to numerous career opportunities. Many of the world’s
leading pharmaceutical companies, research institutions, and healthcare
organizations are headquartered in English-speaking countries or operate
globally using English as their primary business language. Proficiency in
English allows pharmacy students to apply for jobs, internships, and
fellowships with these organizations, broadening their career opportunities.
This article is taken from the Galen Gazette, September 2024, Issue No. 05. The author, Md. Rakibul Hasan, is an eighth-semester pharmacy student at Comilla University.
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