Towards the end of May, 41 students, comprising 14 first year and 27 third-year students, from the BSc. Supply Chain and Operations Management Programme visited Phillips Therapeutics Ltd, for an industry.
This visit aimed to provide the students with invaluable industry exposure. For the first-year students, it served as an introduction to the field, allowing them to relate their classroom learning to practical applications. For the third-year students, who have covered extensive coursework on healthcare and chemical supply chains, warehousing, and logistics management, the visit offered them a firsthand look at real-world supply chain operations in the therapeutical industry.
Upon arrival, the students were warmly welcomed and treated to a conference session followed by breakfast. This set the stage for an engaging and informative day. The visit featured an opening conference session, followed by a comprehensive tour of the warehouse facility, guided by various department heads. The students had the chance to observe the intricate processes involved in drug procurement and warehouse management, gaining insights into the operational aspects that ensure the smooth functioning of a therapeutical supply chain.
Some of the key learnings from the visit included:
Drug Procurement and Warehouse Management
Students learned about the end-to-end process of procuring drugs and medical equipment, including insights into the logistics, storage, and distribution mechanisms critical to maintaining an efficient supply chain.
Security Measures
Given the sensitive nature of pharmaceuticals, security is paramount. The students were briefed on the company’s robust security protocols, including automated systems and upcoming AI implementation plans to enhance security further.
Department Interactions
The students interacted with heads from various departments including Distribution, Import, Security, Marketing, Projects, and the Commercial and Warehouse departments. These interactions provided a holistic view of the company’s operations and highlighted the importance of cross-departmental collaboration.
Industrial visits are crucial for students as they bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application. These visits further reinforce the relevance of their studies and underscored the importance of practical knowledge in their future careers. Moreover, these visits sharpen students’ soft skills, such as communication, teamwork, and problem-solving, which are essential in any professional setting. The shared experiences also strengthen bonds among the students, fostering a collaborative learning environment.
The Bachelor of Science in Supply Chain and Operations Management programme is designed to integrate supply chain, logistics, operations, and digitization. Special emphasis is placed on Production, Logistics, Big Data, BlockChain, Automation and Artificial Intelligence, and how they will impact supply chain and operations management in the near and far future. The June intake for the BSc. Supply Chain and Operations Management Programme is ongoing!
Article by Juliet Hinga
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