Uganda’s pharmacy education landscape has received a significant boost following the accreditation of nine universities to offer the Bachelor of Pharmacy programme—an important step toward strengthening professional standards and ensuring quality in the training of future pharmacists.
Among the institutions approved by the Pharmaceutical Society of Uganda (PSU), Victoria University stands out as a fast-rising, technology-driven institution now officially recognised to train pharmacists. The inclusion of the university alongside long-established institutions such as Makerere University signals a deliberate effort to blend innovation with tradition in advancing pharmaceutical education in the country.
The accreditation, announced in a public notice dated April 16, 2026, was issued by the PSU in collaboration with the National Council for Higher Education (NCHE). Other approved universities include; Mbarara University of Science and Technology, Kampala International University (Western Campus), Gulu University, Busitema University, Fins Medical University, Seeta University, and Jeph International University.
Raising the Bar in Pharmacy Training
The PSU, established under the Pharmacy and Drugs Act (Cap 309), is mandated to regulate the training, registration, and practice of pharmacists in Uganda. Its latest move underscores a continued commitment to maintaining the highest standards in the profession.
By accrediting a select group of institutions, the PSU is ensuring that only universities that meet strict academic and infrastructural requirements are entrusted with training future pharmacists. The council has also made it clear that this recognition is conditional—failure to maintain standards could lead to withdrawal of accreditation.
“Universities must adhere to the standards, otherwise the PSU Council may withdraw their recognition,” the notice cautions.
Victoria University’s Strategic Positioning
For Victoria University, the accreditation marks a key milestone in its expansion into health sciences and professional training. Known for its emphasis on technology-enabled learning and industry relevance, the university is positioning itself as a modern alternative in Uganda’s higher education sector.
Its inclusion reflects growing confidence in private institutions that are investing in quality infrastructure, faculty, and innovative teaching approaches to meet evolving industry needs.
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The PSU has also reinforced its regulatory framework for students pursuing pharmacy training. All pharmacy students—both in Uganda and abroad—are required to register on the PSU Pharmacy Student Portal and obtain a unique student number. The annual registration deadline is March 31.
Upon completing their studies, graduates must pass qualifying examinations administered by the PSU Council before being registered as pharmacists. These include pre-internship exams held in January and June, and post-internship exams conducted in February and August.
Crucially, only graduates from PSU-accredited institutions, or their equivalent, will be eligible for professional recognition and membership.
A Step Toward Professional Excellence
The accreditation of Victoria University alongside Makerere University and other institutions reflects a broader shift toward strengthening Uganda’s healthcare workforce through regulated, high-quality education.
As demand for skilled pharmacists continues to grow—driven by expanding healthcare needs and a more complex pharmaceutical landscape—ensuring consistent training standards is critical.
For students, universities, and the healthcare sector at large, the message is clear: quality, compliance, and professional readiness are now central to the future of pharmacy practice in Uganda.
