Present status of pharmacy education and practice in angola: Trends and challenges

Abstract

Pharmacy education in Angola, the second largest sub-Saharan country after the Democratic Republic of Congo, has undergone some changes since the first pharmacy school was established in 2001. Currently, to practice as a pharmacist, one needs a pharmacy degree. This university degree is awarded after 5 years of pharmacy studies offered only at 7 Pharmacy Schools located mainly in the capital city. This article describes the Angolan pharmacy education framework, including criteria for admission, the type and training length and an overview of the curricula; and outlines the system of pharmacy schools. The pharmacy practice, continuing education and development barriers, and latest directions in pharmacy education are also discussed.