A group of pharmacy graduates have sued the Pharmacy, Medicines and Poisons Board (PMPB) over what they call illegal examinations the board administers to students before they are registered as pharmacists at the completion of their five-year training.
The group of 34 graduates from the College of Medicine want the board to explain the basis of the written examinations with respect to provisions of the Pharmacy, Medicines, Poisons and Board Act.
In a letter to the board dated February 12 3013, lawyer James Masumbu wrote PMPB registrar that it is wrong to administer the examinations because internees are holders of honours degrees from the University of Malawi’s College of Medicine which are recognised by the board as making them eligible for registration.
“Our clients do not, therefore, understand the basis for written examinations to which they are subjected. They hold the view that such examinations are not only ultra vires the act but also unreasonable. Their instructions are to seek judicial review for the legality of such examinations under the Act.
“In view of the contemplated court litigation, it will be in order that any further examinations in the purported exercise of the powers under the Act be suspended until after a decision by the High Court on the subject,” reads part of Masumbu’s letter.
In their response, lawyers Wadi and Associates, representing the board, wrote on March 13 2013 saying the board felt it is crucial to evaluate and ensure that its applicants meet required professional and ethical standards by way of safeguarding its duty.
“The duty of the board in this regard is continuous and even after being registered the board continues to monitor its registrants,” reads the letter.
PMPB registrar Godfrey Kadewele refused to comment on the issue because the matter is in court.
