News

The School of Health Sciences (Pharmacy Department) at Quantum University, Roorkee, organized an insightful Expert Talk titled “Industry-Academia Connections (Chapter 1): Career Guidance through Industry Links, Mentorship, Internships, and More.” This session was specially curated for B.Pharm and D.Pharm students, aiming to bridge the gap between academic learning and professional practice in the ever-evolving field of pharmacy.

Purpose of the Session

The primary objective of this expert session was to help students understand how classroom learning translates into real-world pharmacy careers, including drug development, research, clinical practice, and patient care. With the pharmaceutical sector witnessing steady growth and an expected 5% increase in employment opportunities by 2026, the session provided students with valuable insights to prepare for a successful career in the healthcare industry.

Key Focus Areas

The session focused on four major pillars of professional development:

• Industry Links:
  The speaker highlighted the significance of strong connections between educational institutions and the pharmaceutical industry. Students learned how partnerships with leading companies such as Pfizer and digital tools like PharmON and Handshake can help them access internships, placements, and job opportunities globally.
   
• Mentorship:
  Emphasizing the role of guidance in shaping careers, the talk explored how industry mentors help students develop professional skills, gain confidence, and build a network that opens doors to career growth and lifelong learning.
   
• Internships:
  Practical exposure through internships was discussed as a vital step in bridging academic knowledge with industry experience. Students received tips on securing paid internships in pharmacies, hospitals, and research labs, along with strategies for resume building and leveraging alumni connections for better opportunities.
   
• Future Opportunities:
  The talk also guided students toward advanced career paths, including fellowships, residencies, and teaching roles, encouraging them to think beyond entry-level positions and pursue long-term professional excellence.
   

Keynote Speaker

The session was led by Dr. Mohinder Ahuja, Chairman and Founder of Arogya Formulations Pvt. Ltd., Haridwar. A B.A.M.S. graduate, Dr. Ahuja founded his company in 1997 with the vision of producing high-quality herbal medicines that combine traditional wisdom with modern pharmaceutical standards.

During his address, Dr. Ahuja shared his entrepreneurial journey, emphasizing the importance of industry-academia collaboration, internships, and skill-based learning. He encouraged students to remain curious, innovative, and ethically driven in their professional pursuits, and to make the most of every opportunity that links education with industry experience.

Takeaways for Students

The talk proved to be a highly interactive and informative session, leaving students with actionable insights and renewed motivation to plan their professional journeys. Participants gained a clearer understanding of:

• How to build effective industry networks.
   
• The importance of mentorship in career growth.
   
• Strategies for securing meaningful internships.
   
• Long-term career pathways in pharmacy and healthcare.
   

Conclusion

The Expert Talk marked a successful beginning to the “Industry-Academia Connections” series at Quantum University. By combining professional guidance with real-world insights, the session reinforced the university’s commitment to experiential learning and career-oriented education. Students expressed deep appreciation for the speaker’s practical advice and inspiring vision, making the event a valuable addition to their academic experience.