Students take oath for code of ethics at first pharma convocation

CHANDIGARH: Taking the "Oath for Code of Pharmaceutical Ethics", 62 students of the University Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences (UIPS) pledged to maintain integrity, quality standards, sincerity and ethical approach in their professional lives at the first-ever Chandigarh Pharma Convocation on Friday.

The graduate and post-graduate students from the 2013-14 batches received their degrees from PU vice chancellor Arun K Grover and vice chancellor of KLE University, Belgaum, Arun K Grover in the convocation organized by the faculty of pharmaceutical sciences, PU.

As chairperson BS Bhoop administered the oath to students, Kokate described the convocation as a "historical pharma convocation" for being the first ever in India by a public sector university.

Delivering the convocation address, Kokate spoke about the �Indian herbal drug scenario � Current status and challenges ahead'. He highlighted the tremendous potential of herbal drugs to treat many diseases in a cost-effective and patient-compliant manner.

"Since there are rich bio-diversity contents, the future lies in exploring useful natural products from these flora and fauna. You should maintain excellent quality standards, high ethical values and adherence to drug regulatory norms during pharmaceutical practice," he told graduating students.

Earlier, the PU VC dwelt upon the historical antecedents of UIPS.