University creates research unit in Kuwait

Dr Mamoon Al Deyab from the University of Reading (right) and chair of the Kuwait Pharmaceutical Association Dr Ahmad Taqi (left)

The University of Reading has created a research unit in Kuwait as part of a partnership with a major pharmaceutical organisation.

The agreement, signed in June, brings together the university and the Kuwait Pharmaceutical Association with the goal of "advancing pharmaceutical practices in the country".

The initial focus of the new unit will be pharmacy practice as well health services research.

The new unit will also see student exchanges between Reading and Kuwait.

Dr Mamoon Al Deyab, associate professor in pharmacy and health services research at Reading school of pharmacy and director of the new research unit, said: "Our objective is to make everyday pharmacy care safer and better.

"We want to build pharmacists skills, we want to strengthen the workforce in Kuwait and in Berkshire, we want to test practical ideas in real healthcare settings and when they work we turn them into routine practise.

"Teams in Reading and Kuwait will work together to run joint studies, shared expertise, we will apply for joint grants together and offer real world project for students and practitioners."

Dr Ahmad Taqi, chair of the Kuwait Pharmaceutical Association, said: "We are confident this exciting partnership will help to increase the number of specialised pharmacists in Kuwait, expand our scientific output and support evidence-based studies."