Up: STEMifying Pharmacy Students

YFLO Hyderabad hosted “Up: STEMifying Pharmacy Students” – a highly impactful industrial visit for 100 pharmacy students from Anwarul Uloom College of Pharmacy to Virchow Petrochemicals Pvt. Ltd. on October 26th, 2024.

This event, part of the STEMifying Project, aimed to provide students with valuable insights into the real-world applications of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) in the chemical and pharmaceutical manufacturing sectors. Chairperson Ridhi Jain, alongside initiative head Shreya Reddy, took the lead in executing this project in collaboration with the STEMifying Project.

The visit started with an engaging orientation session led by experts from Virchow Petrochemicals. They introduced the company’s operations and highlighted the significant role that innovation and technology play in the industry. The students were eager to learn how these principles align with the core aspects of STEM.

Following the orientation, the students embarked on a guided tour of the production facility. Led by professionals with advanced degrees in STEM fields, the students observed the entire manufacturing process, from raw material handling to the packaging of finished products. This immersive experience allowed them to see how engineering, chemistry, and automation work together to create high-quality pharmaceuticals efficiently.

One of the highlights of the visit was the exploration of the Quality Control (QC) and Research & Development (R&D) departments. The students gained insights into the scientific methods used to ensure the safety and quality of pharmaceuticals. The session emphasised the critical role of STEM in problem-solving and maintaining high industry standards.

The tour included a visit to Virchow’s solar plant, where students learned about sustainable energy practices and their role in reducing pollution. They were particularly impressed by the wastewater treatment facility.

To conclude the visit, the students engaged in discussions about career prospects in STEM fields within the pharmaceutical and petrochemical industries. This segment provided a comprehensive overview of diverse career opportunities, including process engineering, biotechnology, regulatory affairs, and research, motivating students to consider rewarding pathways in these dynamic sectors.

The industrial visit was a resounding success, providing students with practical exposure to how STEM principles are applied in real-world settings. Participants left with a deeper understanding of industrial operations, and a clearer perspective on the skills required for success in STEM careers.