Is the Pharmaceutical Industry Ready for AI in Drug Safety, or Are We Risking Patient Lives?
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๐ผ๐Being a GPAT-qualified student myself, with an AIR-320 in the year 2018, I can never forget the happiness I got by the notification of "12,400 credited to your account". โ๐ฐ
Yes, getting the stipend was one of the very important reasons that kept me going in my M.Pharm days! ๐๏ธ๐
And today this news absolutely aches me ๐๐
The recent turmoil among GPAT-qualified candidates over missing stipends has cast a spotlight on the significant academic and financial challenges ๐๐ธ facing hundreds of pharmacy graduates in India. The Graduate Pharmacy Aptitude Test (GPAT), conducted by the National Testing Agency (NTA), is a key gateway ๐ช for those aiming to embark on M.Pharm courses, promising a monthly stipend of Rs 12,400 for two years to support their studies ๐ผ๐.
This year, however, has seen widespread discontent as numerous students from different states, with a notable group from Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, reported not receiving their stipends for over a year ๐ . Despite clearing the GPAT in January 2023, these aspirants are still awaiting the financial support that is typically disbursed three months post-admission. The delay has led to significant distress and protests among students, who are calling for the urgent release of their stipends โ๐ฐ. The crux of the issue seems to stem from a shift in stipend disbursement responsibilities from the All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE) to the University Grants Commission (UGC), causing unexpected disruptions ๐.
The GPAT scholarship scheme, detailed with specific terms and conditions, highlights the program's rigorous standards for maintaining eligibility. These include criteria related to the timing of admissions vis-à-vis GPAT score validity, academic performance, and adherence to university guidelines ๐๏ธ๐. The scholarship is structured to provide support for up to 24 months or until program completion, enforcing academic dedication among recipients. Moreover, it stipulates that awardees must not accept any other scholarships or financial aids concurrently ๐ซ๐ต.
The impact of this stipend delay is profound, affecting not just the immediate financial circumstances of the students but also casting a long shadow of doubt and uncertainty about the future of such financial support schemes ๐ค๐ฎ. The collective action and voices of the affected students highlight the urgent need for resolution and a more transparent, efficient process for future stipend disbursements ๐ฃ๐ ๏ธ.
As developments unfold, it's imperative for all involved parties—students, educational institutions, and administrative bodies—to stay updated through credible sources, ensuring they are well-informed about any progress or changes regarding the GPAT stipend issue and scholarship scheme ๐๐.
For the latest developments and more detailed information about the GPAT stipend issue and the scholarship scheme's terms and conditions, it's advisable to follow updates from official sources and educational news platforms:
