CPhA launches program to support International Pharmacy Graduates with mentorship and practical work experience
CPhA is celebrating the full launch of its IPG Mentorship and Integration Project – a four-year project funded through Employment and Social Development Canada to help support unlicensed International Pharmacy Graduates (IPGs) with mentorship, practical experience and other key integration supports to increase their chances of success at licensure.
All unlicensed IPGs can now apply for the program, which is designed to support them on their path to licensure in Canada by offering a range of valuable opportunities, including:
- Virtual Mentorship with experienced Canadian pharmacists
- Mentored Work Placements for hands-on experience in a Canadian pharmacy
- Group Learning and Engagement Sessions covering pharmacy practice, licensure requirements, PEBC exams and more
- Employment Services to support job searching and career development
IPGs, or pharmacists who have been educated outside of Canada, make up over 30% of Canada's pharmacy workforce, but the journey to becoming licensed can be challenging. Barriers can include high costs, lengthy processes and intensive exam preparation coupled with limited access to networks, information sharing, mentorship and work opportunities in pharmacy.
The IPG Mentorship and Integration Project aims to help support IPGs in overcoming these barriers and to help them make informed decisions about licensure and practice in Canada by providing the connections, professional development and experience needed for successful integration into the pharmacy profession.
In addition to recruiting unlicensed IPGs to participate in the program, CPhA is also seeking mentors to participate in the program and share their knowledge to help guide IPGs as they pursue careers in Canada. Mentorship is a key part of the project that provides licensed pharmacists the opportunity to help shape the careers of IPGs and contribute the growth and strength of the pharmacy profession in Canada.
The IPG Mentorship and Integration Project is a critical part of CPhA’s efforts to help support and build capacity within the workforce so that pharmacy can continue to meet the diverse and growing health-care needs of communities across Canada.