1. Introduce yourself.
Hello, I am Pharmacist Laila Ghazi Jarrar, a proud alumna of Jordan University, class of 1987. I had the honour of representing The Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan at a range of healthcare and pharmaceutical conferences and workshops and contributed as the main speaker in many of these events. I was a member nominated by the Jordan Pharmacists Association (JPA) to participate in The International Pharmaceutical Federation (FIP) policy committee responsible for updating the statement of policy on “Responsible and Effective Self-care".
Between 2011 and 2015, at Hikma Pharmaceutical Group, I managed the entire regulatory planning process of the Group across jurisdictions. This was a key enabler of the Group's strategy to register high quality medicines across the Middle East and North Africa efficiently. I led teams to deliver results in accordance with the Group's business plans, policies and processes. I was also involved in the adoption and deployment of the Regulatory Information Management System (RIM) across the Group, to align with the industry's best practices in the submission of regulatory data to health authorities.
I worked at the Jordan Food and Drug Administration (JFDA) since its inception in 2003 and in the Pricing Department until I became the Drug Director between 2006 and 2011. During my time, I worked with my fellow pharmacists and with a diverse number of specialized committee members on issuing many important national guidelines and regulations in accordance with the latest international standards and regulations. This positioned JFDA at the forefront of peer institutions in the region. We managed at JFDA to build a reliable reference database that provides up-to-date information on laws and regulations, drug prices and bar codes and the safety related announcements and labeling. We worked in collaboration with all government department, agencies and national institutes on the elimination of the trading, smuggling and manufacturing of counterfeit medicines through raising public awareness and drafting legislation that defined the act and described its deterrent penalties. In 2011, I was awarded the 'Employee of the Year' Award for her Civil Services.
Between 1999 and 2003, I worked in the Health Insurance Directorate of the Jordan Ministry of Health, where I participated in developing clear, evidence-based and cost effective, clinical guidelines to ensure that the best level of health coverage is offered to the beneficiaries with chronic cases.
Between 1988 and 2003, I worked in different departments at al-Bashir Hospital. I managed with my colleagues to establish the in-patient pharmacies, built a database for insurance covered medicines in addition to creating the first patient medicine registry card.
2. Share your fondest memory from your time at Jordan University.
My fondest memory from my time at Jordan University was working in the university's pharmacy lab. The hands-on experience, coupled with the guidance of our knowledgeable professors, allowed me to apply theoretical knowledge in a practical setting. The friendship among classmates and the shared excitement of discovering new aspects of pharmacy made it an unforgettable experience.
3. In one word, how would you describe Jordan University?
Transformative.
4. Explain how your experiences at UJ shaped you.
My experiences at Jordan University provided me with a solid foundation in both the science and practice of pharmacy. The rigorous coursework and practical training prepared me for the challenges of the profession. Additionally, the university's emphasis on research and critical thinking nurtured my analytical skills, which are essential in both clinical and regulatory settings. The supportive environment and opportunities for professional development also played a crucial role in shaping my career.
5. Discuss what fascinated you about your chosen course of study.
What fascinated me most about pharmacy was the intersection of science and patient care. The ability to understand how drugs interact with the body and how they can be used to treat various conditions was incredibly intriguing. The field's impact on improving patient health and the continuous advancements in pharmacotherapy kept me motivated and passionate about my studies.
6. Offer advice to graduating students preparing to enter the workforce.
My advice to graduating students is to stay curious and committed to continuous learning. The field of pharmacy is always evolving, and keeping up with the latest research and developments is essential. Build strong professional relationships and seek out mentorship opportunities. Lastly, always prioritize patient care and ethics in your practice.
7. Reflect on what you wish you had known during your time as a student.
I wish I had known the importance of practical experience alongside theoretical knowledge. Internships, side projects, hands-on practice are invaluable in bridging the gap between academic concepts and real-world applications. They not only enhance your skills but also make it more attractive to potential employers. Joining professional organizations and attending industry conferences can provide valuable connections and insights that enhance your career prospects.
8. Identify the person who has had the greatest impact on your career.
The person who has had the greatest impact on my career is Dr. Sayyed Arabi Sallam, our professor at Jordan University. His passion for pharmacy and dedication to his students were truly inspiring. He encouraged me to adopt critical thinking which helped me in improving my decision making skills, problem-solving ability, polished my creativity and stimulated my curiosity.