Adamu Suleiman Adamu 


RxRelated presents a revealing conversation with Adamu Suleiman Adamu (ASA), President of PANS BUK, who articulates a student-centered approach to leadership that balances academic excellence with practical experience and community building. This comprehensive interview offers readers an insider's look at the priorities, challenges, and aspirations shaping the future of pharmaceutical education at Bayero University Kano. President Adamu's detailed plans for digital innovation, student welfare improvements, and professional development initiatives reflect his deeply held belief that PANS should serve as more than just a representative body—it should actively enhance the educational journey and future prospects of every pharmacy student at BUK.

Congratulations on your election as the President of PANS BUK! What motivated you to seek this leadership position?

ASA: My motivation came from a deep desire to serve, inspire and contribute meaningfully to the growth of pharmacy students at BUK. Over time, I observed key areas where our association could do more to support students — academically, socially and professionally. I felt a strong sense of responsibility to step up and bring ideas to life.

What is your vision for PANS BUK during your upcoming tenure? What are the key goals you hope to achieve for the chapter and its members?

ASA: My vision is to make PANS BUK a more inclusive, innovative and impactful association — one that supports academic excellence, student welfare and professional growth. My key goals are centered around:

  • Bridging the gap between students and lecturers.
  • Introducing mentorship and career guidance programs.
  • Organizing tutorials, workshops and excursions to pharmaceutical industries.
  • Enhancing welfare through better facilities like a mini printing point and improvements to the PANS Shop.
  • Encouraging sports, social bonding and extracurricular engagement through meaningful events.

What do you believe are the most pressing needs and challenges currently facing pharmacy students at BUK? How do you plan to address these as President?

ASA: Some of the most pressing challenges include the communication gap between students and lecturers, limited academic support structures, inadequate facilities in labs and lecture halls and insufficient platforms for career exposure. As President, I plan to address these through targeted programs — such as student-lecturer engagement forums, tutorial support systems, welfare projects in collaboration with faculty and industry-related excursions to expose students to real-world pharmaceutical practice.

How do you envision PANS BUK contributing to the overall academic and professional development of its members?

ASA: PANS BUK should be more than a student body; it should be a platform for growth. Through mentorship programs, workshops, industry visits and orientation activities, we'll create opportunities for learning beyond the classroom. These initiatives will help our members gain confidence, skills and professional insight early in their journey.

What strategies will you employ to increase student engagement and participation in PANS BUK activities?

ASA: We'll ensure that activities are student-centered, diverse and beneficial. Regular communication, use of social media, feedback forms and class representatives will help us stay connected to student interests. By blending academics with social, sports and outreach programs, we'll create a vibrant atmosphere where every student finds something worth being part of.

Can you outline some specific initiatives or programs you plan to introduce or strengthen within PANS BUK?

ASA:

  • A structured mentorship program linking students with senior colleagues and professionals.
  • A mini printing station for affordable, on-the-spot printing.
  • Weekly sports training and friendly matches.
  • Excursions to pharmaceutical industries for practical exposure.
  • Educative movie nights, picnics, and outreach to secondary schools and underserved communities.
  • Collaborations with key figures to expand the reach and impact of our programs.

How do you plan to foster a stronger sense of community and collaboration among pharmacy students at BUK, across different levels?

ASA: I plan to build a more united PANS BUK by encouraging interaction across all levels through mentorship pairings, joint academic programs and inter-level social events which will be structured in a way that promotes teamwork and bonding between juniors and seniors. The goal is to create a family-like atmosphere where everyone feels seen, heard and supported.

What role do you see PANS BUK playing in bridging the gap between classroom learning and the practical aspects of pharmacy practice? Do you have any specific ideas in this area?

ASA: PANS BUK has a key role in preparing students for life beyond the classroom. To bridge that gap, we will organize excursions to pharmaceutical industries, career talks by practicing pharmacists, symposiums on real-world pharmaceutical challenges, and workshops on practical skills like community pharmacy management and hospital pharmacy workflow. These will give our members practical insights early in their journey.

How do you plan to collaborate with the faculty and administration of the Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences at BUK to benefit students?

ASA: We'll adopt a respectful and constructive approach in working with faculty. By actively communicating student needs through class reps and formal proposals, we'll seek the administration's support in improving lecture room conditions, laboratories, and general academic experiences. Regular feedback sessions and collaborative planning will help ensure we're all moving toward the same goal: student success.

How do you plan to leverage technology and digital platforms to enhance PANS BUK's activities and reach?

ASA: Digital tools will play a major role in making our activities more efficient and accessible. We'll use platforms like WhatsApp, Telegram, and Google Forms for communication, feedback, and registration. We also plan to create a stronger online presence through social media, where students can stay updated, learn, and engage. Educational content, event updates, and even virtual tutorials can be delivered digitally.

How will you ensure effective teamwork and collaboration within your executive council?

ASA: From the onset, I will prioritize clear communication, mutual respect and shared responsibilities. Regular executive meetings, transparent delegation of duties and accountability systems will help us function as a cohesive unit. Everyone will have a voice and a role to play and we'll celebrate our wins together while constructively working through any challenges.

How do you plan to handle disagreements or conflicts that may arise within the executive council or among the student body?

ASA: Conflicts are natural, but how we handle them matters most. I believe in dialogue empathy, and fairness. I'll ensure that all grievances are listened to without bias, and we'll use peaceful dialogue and internal conflict-resolution channels to address issues. In cases involving students at large, we'll work through class representatives and neutral mediators to maintain peace and unity.

The PANS National Symposium is approaching. How do you plan to encourage and facilitate the participation of PANS BUK members in this important event?

ASA: We'll create awareness early, clearly communicating the value of the conference through meetings, social media and class representatives. We also plan to explore partnerships and possible sponsorships to make attendance more affordable for interested students. By coordinating transportation and accommodations collectively, we can make the trip more organized and accessible.

What benefits do you believe attending the National Symposium offers to pharmacy students at BUK?

ASA: The National Symposium is a powerful platform for networking, exposure and learning. It offers our members the chance to connect with students from other schools, meet professionals in the field, attend workshops, and stay informed on national pharmacy trends. It also builds confidence and leadership potential — things that go far beyond the classroom.

What are you most excited about as you take on this leadership position?

ASA: I'm most excited about the opportunity to serve, make meaningful impact, and bring fresh ideas to life. It's one thing to have ideas, and another to actually implement them and see people benefit. I look forward to collaborating with passionate individuals, solving real problems, and contributing to the academic, social and professional growth of my fellow students.

What are some of the potential challenges you anticipate facing, and how do you plan to overcome them?

ASA: Challenges like limited funding, time constraints and balancing academics with leadership responsibilities may arise. I plan to overcome them through strategic planning, strong delegation, open communication and resourceful partnerships. I'll also keep a grounded team around me to ensure we stay focused and support one another.

What message do you have for the pharmacy students of BUK as you prepare to begin your tenure as President?

ASA: My message is simple: this administration is for you, and it's about you. Your voice matters, your participation is important and your growth is our goal. Let's work together to build a stronger, smarter and more united PANS BUK. I promise to serve with integrity and I ask for your support and prayers as we embark on this journey together.