{"id":22816,"date":"2025-08-14T13:53:49","date_gmt":"2025-08-14T11:53:49","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/?p=22816"},"modified":"2026-03-12T10:02:26","modified_gmt":"2026-03-12T08:02:26","slug":"smu-school-of-pharmacy-short-learning-programmes","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/smu-school-of-pharmacy-short-learning-programmes\/","title":{"rendered":"SMU School of Pharmacy Short Learning Programmes"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p>Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) is a leading institution in South Africa dedicated to producing highly skilled healthcare professionals. Among its many academic offerings, the School of Pharmacy Short Learning Programmes (SLPs) provide pharmacists and other healthcare workers with specialised, practical training to advance their skills and contribute to better public health outcomes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In a country where access to healthcare is often limited and pharmacists serve as the first point of contact for many communities, short courses like SMU\u2019s Immunisation and Injection Techniques for Pharmacists (IITP) are crucial. These programmes equip professionals with the skills needed to address healthcare gaps and enhance vaccination coverage nationwide.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-about-smu-school-of-pharmacy\">About SMU School of Pharmacy<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>The <a href=\"https:\/\/www.smu.ac.za\/programmes\/pharmacy-short-learning-programme\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">SMU School of Pharmacy<\/a> has a strong reputation for academic excellence, research innovation, and community engagement. Accredited by the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.pharmcouncil.co.za\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">South African Pharmacy Council <\/a>(SAPC), the School ensures its training meets both national and international healthcare standards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>With state-of-the-art laboratories, highly qualified lecturers, and a strong commitment to practical, hands-on training, the School prepares pharmacy graduates and professionals to play a central role in South Africa\u2019s evolving healthcare landscape.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"gaute-1337088242\" class=\"gaute-inbetween-content gaute-entity-placement\" style=\"margin-top: 30px;margin-bottom: 30px;margin-left: auto;margin-right: auto;text-align: center;\"><div class=\"gaute-adlabel\">Advertisement<\/div><script async src=\"\/\/pagead2.googlesyndication.com\/pagead\/js\/adsbygoogle.js?client=ca-pub-1852772760112594\" crossorigin=\"anonymous\"><\/script><ins class=\"adsbygoogle\" style=\"display:block;\" data-ad-client=\"ca-pub-1852772760112594\" \ndata-ad-slot=\"1819787043\" \ndata-ad-format=\"auto\" data-full-width-responsive=\"true\"><\/ins>\n<script> \n(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); \n<\/script>\n<\/div><h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-what-are-short-learning-programmes-slps\">What are Short Learning Programmes (SLPs)?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Short Learning Programmes (SLPs) are targeted, condensed courses designed to develop specific skills in a shorter time than traditional degree programmes. For pharmacists, these programmes offer:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Career-specific training<\/strong> without the need for long-term study.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Practical competencies<\/strong> aligned with healthcare needs.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Continuing Professional Development (CPD)<\/strong> opportunities to maintain and expand professional registration.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>While degree programmes focus on broad foundational knowledge, SLPs are specialised, skill-driven, and often highly practical\u2014perfect for working professionals.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-about-the-smu-school-of-pharmacy-slp\">About the SMU School of Pharmacy SLP<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Currently, one of the flagship short courses at SMU is the <strong>Immunisation and Injection Techniques for Pharmacists (IITP)<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Purpose of the course:<\/strong><br>To train pharmacists to provide high-quality vaccination services, advocate for vaccination, and help improve South Africa\u2019s immunisation coverage\u2014ultimately reducing vaccine-preventable diseases.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Target audience:<\/strong><br>Registered pharmacists seeking to expand their scope of practice into vaccination services.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Delivery mode:<\/strong><br>In-person, including theory modules and a practical workshop.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"gaute-308329810\" class=\"gaute-inbetween-content gaute-entity-placement\" style=\"margin-top: 30px;margin-bottom: 30px;margin-left: auto;margin-right: auto;text-align: center;\"><div class=\"gaute-adlabel\">Advertisement<\/div><script async src=\"\/\/pagead2.googlesyndication.com\/pagead\/js\/adsbygoogle.js?client=ca-pub-1852772760112594\" crossorigin=\"anonymous\"><\/script><ins class=\"adsbygoogle\" style=\"display:block;\" data-ad-client=\"ca-pub-1852772760112594\" \ndata-ad-slot=\"1819787043\" \ndata-ad-format=\"auto\" data-full-width-responsive=\"true\"><\/ins>\n<script> \n(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); \n<\/script>\n<\/div><h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-course-modules\">Course Modules<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>The IITP course is divided into <strong>five key modules<\/strong> plus a practical session:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><thead><tr><th>Module<\/th><th>Topics Covered<\/th><\/tr><\/thead><tbody><tr><td><strong>1. Basic Vaccinology and Vaccination Schedules<\/strong><\/td><td>Immunisation principles, types of vaccines, vaccination schedules, catch-up schedules<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>2. Cold-chain Management and Logistics<\/strong><\/td><td>Vaccine storage, cold box packing, temperature monitoring, shake test, SOP compliance<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>3. Safe Administration of Vaccines<\/strong><\/td><td>Vaccination station setup, patient history taking, informed consent, administration techniques, record keeping, waste disposal<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>4. Vaccine Safety and Pharmacovigilance<\/strong><\/td><td>Adverse events following immunisation (AEFIs), post-vaccination observation, emergency management including anaphylaxis<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>5. Stakeholder Engagement and Vaccine Advocacy<\/strong><\/td><td>Communication strategies, addressing vaccine hesitancy, countering myths, building trust<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-admission-requirements\">Admission Requirements<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Applicants must meet the following requirements:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Be a registered <strong>pharmacist<\/strong> with the South African Pharmacy Council.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Provide proof of registration and professional standing.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Submit a completed application form with all required documentation.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Meet language proficiency standards for English.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"gaute-1386356493\" class=\"gaute-inbetween-content gaute-entity-placement\" style=\"margin-top: 30px;margin-bottom: 30px;margin-left: auto;margin-right: auto;text-align: center;\"><div class=\"gaute-adlabel\">Advertisement<\/div><script async src=\"\/\/pagead2.googlesyndication.com\/pagead\/js\/adsbygoogle.js?client=ca-pub-1852772760112594\" crossorigin=\"anonymous\"><\/script><ins class=\"adsbygoogle\" style=\"display:block;\" data-ad-client=\"ca-pub-1852772760112594\" \ndata-ad-slot=\"1819787043\" \ndata-ad-format=\"auto\" data-full-width-responsive=\"true\"><\/ins>\n<script> \n(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); \n<\/script>\n<\/div><h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-application-process\">Application Process<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Obtain the application form<\/strong> from the SMU School of Pharmacy or its website.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Complete the form<\/strong> with all required personal and professional details.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Prepare documents<\/strong> (proof of registration, ID\/Passport copy).<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Pay the course fee<\/strong> of <strong>R5 400<\/strong> before commencement.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Use your ID\/Passport number as reference<\/strong> when making payment to ensure correct processing.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Submit your application<\/strong> along with proof of payment and supporting documents.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-benefits-of-completing-an-smu-pharmacy-slp\">Benefits of Completing an SMU Pharmacy SLP<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Expanded scope of practice<\/strong> \u2013 enabling pharmacists to offer vaccination services.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Contribution to public health<\/strong> \u2013 increasing vaccination coverage in communities.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>CPD points<\/strong> \u2013 meeting professional development requirements.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Practical skills<\/strong> \u2013 immediate application in workplace settings.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Networking<\/strong> \u2013 connection with peers and healthcare stakeholders.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"gaute-268711954\" class=\"gaute-inbetween-content gaute-entity-placement\" style=\"margin-top: 30px;margin-bottom: 30px;margin-left: auto;margin-right: auto;text-align: center;\"><div class=\"gaute-adlabel\">Advertisement<\/div><script async src=\"\/\/pagead2.googlesyndication.com\/pagead\/js\/adsbygoogle.js?client=ca-pub-1852772760112594\" crossorigin=\"anonymous\"><\/script><ins class=\"adsbygoogle\" style=\"display:block;\" data-ad-client=\"ca-pub-1852772760112594\" \ndata-ad-slot=\"1819787043\" \ndata-ad-format=\"auto\" data-full-width-responsive=\"true\"><\/ins>\n<script> \n(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); \n<\/script>\n<\/div><h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-frequently-asked-questions-faqs\">Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>1. Are these SLPs accredited?<\/strong><br>Yes, the programme is aligned with SAPC requirements.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>2. Can international pharmacists apply?<\/strong><br>International applicants must meet SAPC registration requirements before enrolling.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>3. Is the course online?<\/strong><br>Currently, the course includes an in-person practical component and is not fully online.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>4. How does it impact my career?<\/strong><br>It allows pharmacists to offer new services, meet CPD obligations, and respond to public health needs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Success Stories \/ Testimonials<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Many pharmacists who have completed the Immunisation and Injection Techniques for Pharmacists course at SMU report significant career and personal growth. Here are a few examples:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p><em>&#8220;This course transformed the way I practice pharmacy. I now provide vaccination services in my community pharmacy, and the response from patients has been overwhelming. It\u2019s deeply rewarding to know I\u2019m making a difference.&#8221;<\/em> \u2014 <strong>Thandi M., Community Pharmacist, Gauteng<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p><em>&#8220;Before the course, I had limited experience with immunisation beyond theory. The practical training at SMU gave me the confidence to administer vaccines safely and handle emergency situations effectively.&#8221;<\/em> \u2014 <strong>Sipho K., Hospital Pharmacist, Limpopo<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p><em>&#8220;I was looking for a way to grow my career and meet my CPD requirements. This programme not only helped with that but also opened new opportunities for collaboration with local clinics and health campaigns.&#8221;<\/em> \u2014 <strong>Nomvula P., Pharmacist, Eastern Cape<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p>These stories highlight the real-world value of SMU\u2019s SLPs\u2014combining professional advancement with direct community impact.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Also check: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/uj-faculty-of-science\/\">UJ Faculty of Science<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The SMU School of Pharmacy Short Learning Programmes, particularly the Immunisation and Injection Techniques for Pharmacists, stand out as vital professional development opportunities. By combining theoretical knowledge with hands-on training, SMU equips pharmacists to address pressing public health challenges, increase vaccination coverage, and strengthen South Africa\u2019s healthcare system.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>For pharmacists eager to expand their expertise, make a tangible impact, and stay ahead in their profession, SMU\u2019s SLPs are a smart and strategic choice.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>SMU School of Pharmacy offers accredited Short Learning Programmes like the Immunisation and Injection Techniques for Pharmacists course. Gain CPD points, practical vaccination skills, and advance your pharmacy career in South Africa.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":13,"featured_media":22830,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"rank_math_focus_keyword":"","rank_math_title":"","rank_math_description":"SMU School of Pharmacy offers accredited Short Learning Programmes like the Immunisation and Injection Techniques for Pharmacists course. Gain CPD points, practical vaccination skills, and advance your pharmacy career in South Africa.","footnotes":""},"categories":[68],"tags":[],"class_list":{"0":"post-22816","1":"post","2":"type-post","3":"status-publish","4":"format-standard","5":"has-post-thumbnail","7":"category-education"},"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/22816","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/13"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=22816"}],"version-history":[{"count":1,"href":"https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/22816\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":22831,"href":"https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/22816\/revisions\/22831"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/22830"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=22816"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=22816"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=22816"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}