Pharmaceutical simulation centre opens in Cotonou

Benin has acquired a state-of-the-art pharmacy simulation center with the inauguration of “PHARM EXPERIENCE” on Monday in Cotonou.

It is a facility designed to modernise the training of pharmaceutical science students.

Located within the pharmacy department of the Faculty of Health Sciences (FSS), this centre is among the first of its kind in the Francophone West African academic community.

The inauguration ceremony was presided over by the Minister of Health and Acting Minister of
Higher Education and Scientific Research, Professor Benjamin Hounkpatin, in the presence of several academic and pharmaceutical sector leaders.

The building includes a dispensing room replicating the conditions of a modern pharmacy, as well as a classroom equipped with interactive digital devices and a videoconferencing system.

A camera system also allows students to follow simulated practical scenarios in real time, through role-playing exercises, from the classroom.

Faculty officials emphasise that this infrastructure aims to bring training closer to real-world situations, placing innovation at the heart of learning.

It is part of a broader effort to improve teaching standards and professionalize students.

The representative of the Rector of the University of Abomey-Calavi welcomed this initiative, which addresses the challenges of student support, while reaffirming the institution’s commitment to providing concrete solutions to the needs of the population.

The health minister stressed the need to adapt training to ongoing reforms in the sector, specifically mentioning the future integration of the “e-pharmacy” digital solution into educational programs.

He also announced a government project to build a larger-scale simulation hospital.

TE/fss/as/APA