COUNCIL of Pharmacy Schools Australia and New Zealand (CPS) members have elected Associate Professor Ramesh Walpola (pictured) as its new president after Professor Joseph Tucci stood down late in 2025.
A highly regarded researcher and educator, Assoc Prof Walpola is a pharmacist, certified health manager and the pharmacy academic lead at the School of Health Sciences at the University of New South Wales (UNSW) Sydney.
He is currently leading the implementation of the new pharmacy program at UNSW Sydney.
"I thank the CPS Councillors for the opportunity to serve as president at such a pivotal time for pharmacy education and the wider profession," Assoc Prof Walpola said.
"I also extend my sincere gratitude to Professor Tucci for his leadership of CPS in 2025.
"His contributions to pharmacy higher education over many years have left a meaningful and lasting impact on the profession."
CPS vice-president Professor Andrew McLachlan and the CPS councillors were pleased to have an academic pharmacist and leader with Associate Professor Walpola's education and research experience to take on the role of president.
"Ramesh is well placed to lead CPS over the next 12 months, with a strong track record of working closely with pharmacy stakeholders and partners," Prof McLachlan said.
The CPS thanked Prof Tucci for his commitment, service and leadership during his year as president.
The Australian Pharmacy Council (APC) congratulated Assoc Prof Walpola on his election, noting he has been a contributor to the work of APC as an accreditation assessor, assisting APC with the assessment of pharmacy programs.
"Ramesh is a collaborative and passionate pharmacy educator and leader, and we look forward to working closely with him in this new role," APC CEO Bronwyn Clark said.
APC also acknowledged and thanked Professor Tucci for his leadership and service during his term as CPS president, pointing out that his commitment to advancing pharmacy education has been valued across the profession. KB
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