CNN Central News & Network-ITDC India Epress/ITDC News Bhopal: The unnecessary use of antibiotic medicines and consuming them without medical advice can make the treatment of infections difficult. To increase public awareness about this serious health challenge, the Institute of Pharmacy of Rabindranath Tagore University (RNTU) organised an awareness programme at Chiklod village on the occasion of World Pharmacist Day 2026 and National Pharmacy Week.
At the programme, students used a street play to inform people about the causes, consequences and preventive measures related to antimicrobial resistance (AMR). The programme was organised under the guidance of Dr Durga Pandey, Principal, RNTU Institute of Pharmacy. It was coordinated by National Service Scheme (NSS) programme officers Dr Gabbar Singh and Dr Rekha Gupta.
In line with the theme of World Pharmacist Day 2026, “Empowering pharmacists for a healthy future,” the programme placed special emphasis on the rational use of medicines and the role of pharmacists in public health.
Through the street play, students of the Pharmacy Department and the National Service Scheme explained that the incorrect and unnecessary use of antibiotics could make the treatment of infections more difficult in the future. Taking antibiotics without a doctor’s advice, using these medicines when they are not required and ignoring medical instructions related to treatment can worsen the problem of antimicrobial resistance.
The students appealed to villagers to avoid taking antibiotics on their own and to use them only as advised by doctors. The programme also conveyed that awareness and participation of ordinary citizens, along with health experts, are essential to prevent antimicrobial resistance.
Along with health awareness, stationery material was also distributed during the programme to promote social responsibility. Through this initiative, the students underlined the importance of community cooperation, social sensitivity and public service.
RNTU Vice-Chancellor Dr R.P. Dubey said awareness about public health and social responsibility are important parts of education. He said such initiatives by students connect them with real challenges in society and inspire them to bring about positive change.
University Registrar Dr Sangeeta Jauhari said increasing awareness about the correct use of medicines and antibiotics is the need of the hour. She said such programmes develop a sense of social responsibility among students and motivate them to actively participate in work related to public welfare.
The programme was organised in line with the objectives of the Pharmacy Council of India (PCI) and the Madhya Pradesh State Pharmacy Council regarding public health awareness and the social role of pharmacists.
The initiative by the RNTU Institute of Pharmacy delivered a message on responsible medicine use and raising awareness about the prevention of infections. Through the programme, it was made clear that rational use of medicines, adherence to medical advice and active participation of society are necessary to prevent antimicrobial resistance.
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