A recent circular from the Pharmacy Council of India (PCI) dated January 9, 2025 and January 15, 2025 has professors in Pharmaceutics, Pharmacology, Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Pharmacy Practice, Pharmacognosy, and Pharmaceutical Biotechnology worried about potential faculty cuts. While this may sound daunting, there’s no need to panic. Institutions still greatly value skilled and dedicated educators. Here’s how to stay secure in your role and why professors remain indispensable.

Building Your Value: The Key to Job Security

1. Develop a Strong Teaching Profile

• Deliver engaging, high quality lectures.
• Incorporate active learning techniques, such as group discussions and problem based assignments.
• Seek student feedback regularly to refine your teaching approach.

2. Establish Yourself as a Researcher

• Choose impactful topics that align with current industry or societal needs.
• Publish in reputable journals and present at academic conferences.
• Collaborate across departments to diversify your research portfolio.

3. Secure Funding

• Apply for grants from national and international bodies.
• Partner with colleagues or industry experts to strengthen proposals.
• Showcase successful funding as evidence of your value to your institution.

4. Mentor and Guide Students

• Provide both academic and career advice, helping students navigate internships and research opportunities.
• Encourage critical thinking and independent exploration.
• Maintain an open-door policy to foster strong student-faculty relationships.

5. Contribute to Institutional Growth

• Take active roles in accreditation processes and curriculum design.
• Volunteer for committees or task forces that shape institutional policies.
• Create or improve courses that align with emerging trends in pharmacy and healthcare.

6. Stay Updated with Trends and Technology

• Keep pace with digital tools for teaching, such as learning management systems and virtual labs.
• Attend workshops or online courses to continually refine your skill set.
• Incorporate relevant industry updates into your lectures, ensuring students get real world insights.

7. Network and Collaborate

• Build connections within professional organizations and academic societies.
• Exchange best practices with peers from other institutions.
• Host or participate in webinars and guest lectures to broaden your professional presence.

Why Institutions Need Professors

1. Teaching and Mentoring

Professors shape well rounded graduates through immersive learning, personalized guidance, and real world application of course materials.

2. Research and Innovation

Groundbreaking studies and discoveries drive an institution’s reputation, fostering a culture of progress and attracting top-tier students.

3. Accreditation and Ranking

Strong faculty profiles, marked by publications and industry recognition, boost institutional credibility and enhance global rankings.

4. Institutional Development

Professors often spearhead committees, initiate collaborative projects, and design new programs, ensuring the institution remains future-focused.

5. Community and Industry Connections

Well-connected professors forge partnerships with healthcare industries, research bodies, and local communities leading to internships, placements, and collaborative opportunities.

 While the latest PCI circular might raise concerns, don’t forget that professors are central to the growth and success of every academic institution. By honing your teaching skills, expanding your research endeavors, securing funding, and actively contributing to your institution’s development, you become invaluable. Stay proactive, keep innovating, and continue making a positive impact on the next generation of healthcare professionals.

 Regards,

Dr. Kumanan R.

Dr. Sudha S.

Dr. Sriram N.