NVTI introduces Pharmaceutical Technology programme

The National Vocational Training Institute (NVTI) has ventured into the training of pharmaceutical technologists with the introduction of Pharmaceutical Manufacturing Technology (PHARMATECH) programme.

The programme seeks to provide education and training in the fundamental and applied aspects of good manufacturing practices, manufacturing technology, finished dosage/active pharmaceutical ingredient production processes and relevant science.

Once trained, a pharmaceutical manufacturing technologist or technician would be responsible for operating and maintaining pharmaceutical manufacturing equipment such as reactors, tableting, capsule filling, blisters packaging, liquid mixing and powder blending machines, among others.

Qualifications

To qualify to pursue a one-year programme (PHARMATECH), one needs to have fundamental knowledge in mechanical engineering, electronics, and general electrical installations, as well as refrigeration and air conditioning.

The initiative to introduce the programme is an NVTI/LaGray Chemical Company initiative supported by the GIZ, a German Development Cooperation agency.

The first batch of 16 students is undertaking the programme which is being implemented by NVTI Pilot Training Institute (PTI) at Kokomlemle in Accra.

Throwing more light on the new programme, the Coordinator of the PHARMATECH Programme, Mr Maxwell Kofi Zanu, said the curriculum, among others, was aimed at creating employment opportunities and the manpower needed for the pharmaceutical industry.

NVTI Director

The Director of the NVTI, Mr Stephen Bismark Amponsah, said the programme would have to be expanded to cater for more students.

“We think that the sub-region is even small for us,” he said, and added that such a programme needed to be undertaken on solid ground, not compromising on quality.

For the NVTI, he said, the craftsmen who would complete the programme should be highly competent.