The College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences' Office of Experiential Affairs at Western New England University (WNE) is proud to announce the successful completion of an international Advanced Pharmacy Practice Experience (APPE) rotation in the West African nation of Ghana.
Under the leadership of pharmacy professor and Assistant Dean for Experiential Affairs, Melissa Mattison, PharmD, a group of dedicated pharmacy students embarked on a transformative journey to Ghana this January. Partnering with healthcare professionals and students from the University of Massachusetts Medical School, the WNE students engaged in a range of activities aimed at providing crucial health education to local Ghana communities.
Throughout the rotation, participants conducted vital health screenings, offered nutrition counseling, and facilitated education sessions on tropical diseases. These efforts were conducted in collaboration with local healthcare professionals, providing a unique opportunity for inter-cultural learning and exchange of medical practices.
"This experience allowed our students to immerse themselves in the rich cultural and medical landscape of sub-Saharan Africa while making a tangible difference in the lives of Ghanaian communities," remarked Mattison.
The success of this inaugural APPE rotation has paved the way for future initiatives. In January of 2025, Dr. Mattison will lead another group of pharmacy students back to Ghana to build upon the foundation laid during this transformative experience.
Western New England University's College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences remains committed to providing its students with opportunities for global engagement and experiential learning, preparing them to become compassionate and competent healthcare professionals on a global scale.
