Amrita Hosts Kerala State Pharmacy Students’ Conclave

Pharma Conclave 2025, the state-level IPA Student Congress, first of its kind in Kerala, was organised by Amrita School of Pharmacy in association with the Indian Pharmaceutical Association (IPA) Kerala State Branch. The event represented a major milestone in the state’s pharmacy education landscape, bringing together students, academicians, and professionals under one collaborative platform designed to inspire knowledge sharing, innovation, and leadership.

The inaugural ceremony was held on 14th November 2025 at the Amritayanam Auditorium, Amrita Health Sciences Campus Kochi. Dr. Sabitha M., Principal, Amrita School of Pharmacy, formally opened the event with a warm and insightful welcome address. In her speech, she highlighted the uniqueness of Amrita as an educational institution and the vision behind hosting the first-ever state-level IPA Student Congress in Kerala and emphasised the importance of empowering the next generation of pharmacy professionals. Dr. Jayasekhar P., President of the IPA Kerala State Branch, delivered the presidential address, emphasising the transformative potential of student-led initiatives in shaping the future of the pharmacy profession. Following his address, the inaugural lamp lighting ceremony took place.

The inaugural address was delivered by Dr. K. S. Radhakrishnan, former Chairman of the Kerala Public Service Commission and former Vice Chancellor of the Sree Sankaracharya University of Sanskrit, Kalady. His speech offered deep insights into the rapidly evolving role of pharmacy professionals in society. He stressed the importance of compassion, integrity, and accountability in healthcare, urging students to view their profession not merely as a career, but as an essential service to humanity.

The official release of the Indian Pharmaceutical Association-Student Forum (IPA-SF) E-Magazine took place, marking a proud moment for the student community. The magazine showcased academic contributions, creative works, and highlights of various IPA-SF activities. This was followed by an address from Dr. John Joseph, Secretary of the IPA Kerala State Branch, who congratulated the organising team and encouraged students to take active roles in strengthening the pharmacy fraternity at both state and national levels.

Felicitations were then offered by Mr. M P George, Vice President of the IPA Kerala State Branch, and Mr. Pradeep M R, CEO of Pharma First Consultancy. The prizes for the YUVA Song Competition were distributed, celebrating the artistic talent and creativity of the student participants. The ceremony was followed by the vote of thanks presented by Ms. Rajalakshmi S, Pharm D Intern and Secretary of the National Executive Committee of IPASF.

The morning session concluded with an enriching motivational talk by Br. Sivanandan D S, Assistant Professor, School of Spiritual and Cultural Studies, Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham, Amritapuri Campus. His talk was titled “Embrace the Beginner: Your Shortcut to Mastery in a Distracted World.” He encouraged students to develop mindfulness, humility, and focus as essential tools for navigating both academic and professional challenges. He emphasized that true mastery begins with embracing the mindset of a learner – one who is open to growth, willing to persevere, and capable of rising above distractions.

Pharma Conclave 2025 featured a diverse array of academic, cultural, and sports activities spread across two venues, creating a vibrant and enriching experience for participants from institutions across Kerala.

At Venue 1, the day’s events commenced with Ideathon Round 1 from 11.30 AM to 1.00 PM. Teams engaged in brainstorming and developing innovative solutions to pressing pharmaceutical and healthcare challenges. Pencil drawing contest allowed students to display their artistic expression and technique. Simultaneously, Malayalam Recitation took place offering a platform for participants to showcase linguistic finesse and emotional depth. Ideathon Round 2 was held during which shortlisted teams refined their concepts and presented them with greater clarity. Meanwhile, the Cartoon Drawing competition added a playful and imaginative element to the schedule.

The day culminated in a lively musical event by Amrutam Gamay featuring energetic performances that captivated the audience. Dinner was served afterward, concluding a dynamic and fulfilling day at the auditorium.

Venue 2 hosted a lineup of engaging sports competitions. The day kicked off with the Throw Ball event for girls, encouraging teamwork and athletic spirit. Carroms Doubles for both boys and girls tested precision, concentration, and coordination. The sports events wrapped up with an exciting Boys’ Volleyball match that drew enthusiastic support from onlookers.

The second day of Pharma Conclave 2025, held on 15th November began with the Adapt-to-Tune competition, where participants impressed the audience with their spontaneity and sense of rhythm as they performed to unpredictable music transitions. This was followed by a spirited dance performance adding colour, enthusiasm, and festive energy to the morning atmosphere. The auditorium resonated with melody during the Duet Song presentation, where participants showcased remarkable vocal harmony and musical synergy. This was followed by Split Dance competition.

Motivational session II began, titled Unleash Your Best Self, led by corporate mentor and motivational trainer Mr. Vishnu Lona Jacob. In an engaging and interactive session, he guided students through essential principles of personal development, confidence building, and professional readiness. He encouraged participants to identify their inner strengths, challenge self-limiting beliefs, and adopt a proactive mindset.

The culmination of Pharma Conclave 2025 was marked by the Valedictory Programme on the afternoon of 15th November. The ceremony began with an earnest welcome address by Dr. Deepu S, Chairperson of the Advisory Committee of IPASF, Kerala State Branch, who acknowledged the dedication and teamwork that brought the conclave to life. The chief guest, acclaimed Malayalam cine artist Mr. Tini Tom, in his address praised the initiative taken by the organisers and suggested the students to uphold discipline and sincerity in their pursuit of academic excellence.

Prizes were then distributed to the students who excelled in the wide range of academic, cultural, and sports events conducted over the two-day conclave. Mr. Shisi A, Treasurer of the IPA Kerala State Branch, delivered the felicitation address. He acknowledged the exceptional efforts of the organising committee, appreciated the enthusiastic participation of students, and highlighted the significance of such platforms in nurturing future pharmacy professionals. Participants then shared their feedback expressing sincere appreciation for the seamless coordination, well-structured sessions, and the diversity of competitions. Many noted how the conclave offered not only academic enrichment but also cultural vibrancy, networking opportunities, and personal growth. Ms. Akshitha J, President of the IPA SF – Amrita Student Chapter, delivered the vote of thanks.

The ceremony concluded with the National Anthem, followed by lunch, marking the grand closure of the first-of-its-kind state-level Pharma Conclave organised by Amrita School of Pharmacy in association with the IPA Kerala State Branch.