It was a glorious moment for Abhilash Bonu, a Pharm.D student of Avanti Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Vizianagaram, when he got selected for Leaders in Training organised as part of the International Pharmaceutical Students Federation – World Congress -- held recently in Hyderabad.
The 61st World Congress, a combination of debates, discussions, paper and poster presentations, saw close to 600 pharmacy students from 70 nations presenting various topics. “During poster presentation, I opted to speak about ‘Surrogacy – boon or bane’ and for the debate, ‘Encompassing active pharmaceutical ingredient to formulation – process, quality and economics’ was the theme. Other than improving my communication skills, the international avenue provided me an opportunity to hone my project management and planning skills,” says Abhilash.
Despite the financial crunch, Abhilash says that he was able to make it to the convention only because of his mother’s support.
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“I lost my father when I was in Class VIII. Whatever I am able to achieve today, it is only because of my mother B. Lakshmi. Her unconditional love motivates me scale greater heights, tiding over any challenge,” he says. The 10-day congress also included industrial visits. “It was a different exposure altogether where you get to know new things by sharing your views with other delegates. Every topic given will be discussed in an open forum. The platform helped us come up with different solutions to address problems pertaining to pharmacy,” says the student who resides in the port city.
Next time, Abhilash not only aims to be part of the international forum but also intends to secure the top position in the World Congress. “Although I have been part of various debates held in GITAM University and other institutions, I feel honoured to participate in the World Congress, representing the city. I am sure that I will make it big the next time in the annual convention,” he sums up.