Agaba Ronald , MPS

Day Five of the Universal Prevention Curriculum (UPC) Core Training at the National Drug Authority (NDA) head offices in Kampala, as NDA strengthens its workforce in evidence-based substance use prevention. Organised by NDA, delivered by UYDEL and supported by the Colombo Plan, the five-day training equipped 22 pharmacists with knowledge and skills to apply prevention science, promote responsible medicine use and prevent substance-related harm. In his appreciation remarks, the Secretary to the Authority, Dr. David Nahamya, appreciated the trainers and participants for their commitment and enthusiasm throughout the training. He emphasised NDA’s strong interest in substance use prevention and expressed its desire to extend the course to professionals in other fields, including clinicians, to strengthen prevention efforts across the health sector. We look forward to a growing network of skilled prevention practitioners and experts advancing evidence-based interventions and building healthier communities across Uganda. #UPCTraining #SubstanceUsePrevention #NDA #UYDEL #ColomboPlan @UNDAuthority @PharmacistsUg @ColomboPlan @WFAD_info @issupnet @UNODC

The National Drug Authority (NDA) is empowering its workforce and pharmacy professionals through a five-day Universal Prevention Curriculum (UPC) Core Training, which commenced today, 19 October 2026, at its head offices in Kampala. The training brings together 22 pharmacists, mainly from the Pharmaceutical Society of Uganda, to strengthen their understanding and application of evidence-based substance use prevention. Organised by NDA, delivered by Uganda Youth Development Link (UYDEL), and supported by the Colombo Plan, the training draws on prevention science aligned with the UNODC and WHO International Standards on Drug Use Prevention. Day One sessions were led by global trainers Dr. Rogers Kasirye, Dr. David Basangwa and Ms. Anna Nabulya. Through group work, practical exercises and open discussions, participants explored the importance of prevention, substance use challenges in their communities, and how psychoactive substances affect the brain, body and behaviour. Sessions covered Modules One and Two: Training Introduction, and Physiology and Pharmacology for Prevention Professionals. In his opening remarks, Dr. David Nahamya, Secretary to the Authority of NDA, emphasised that NDA’s mandate includes educating the public about the proper use of medicines and the dangers of drug misuse. He welcomed the training as an opportunity to expand the workforce of knowledgeable professionals who can support this mandate by extending public education and substance use prevention across Uganda’s regions. He also raised concerns about the availability and misuse of drugs in communities, citing reports of people administering antiretroviral medicines (ARVs) to animals in an attempt to accelerate their growth. He encouraged pharmacists to actively engage in the training to strengthen their own understanding, educate others and support people already affected by substance use. The Secretary commended the trainers for their longstanding involvement in substance use prevention and work with young people. He recognised the value of this experience in helping pharmacists connect prevention science with the realities facing individuals and communities, reinforcing the relevance of the training. Dr. Brian Sekayombya, Principal Regulatory Officer in the Medicines Information Unit, emphasised the importance of prevention science for pharmacists, given their role in promoting the safe use of medicines. He encouraged participants to apply this knowledge when supporting colleagues experiencing substance use challenges. Describing the UPC training as the first of its kind at NDA, he noted that it provides an essential foundation for strengthening prevention within the institution. Running from 19–23 October 2026, the training strengthens pharmacists’ capacity to translate prevention science into everyday practice and public education. Investing in these skills supports Uganda’s efforts to prevent substance-related harm, promote the responsible use of medicines and extend informed prevention services to communities across the country. @UNDAuthority @ColomboPlan @PharmacistsUg @UNODC @WHO