Assessment of attitude, obstacles and motivational factors towards postgraduate education among pharmacist in Oyo state

Abstract

Background: A professional needs to update his knowledge in order to remain  relevant in the profession. One of the ways to achieve this is through postgraduate education.
Objectives: To determine the number of pharmacists in the state with postgraduate education and evaluating obstacles towards seeking postgraduate education, as well as exploring the motivational factors to acquiring a postgraduate degree in  pharmacy.
Methods: One hundred copies of structured questionnaires were distributed to practicing pharmacists in Oyo state. Section A of the questionnaire sought  demographics information, while sections B, C and D assesses respondent’s level of agreement with statements on reasons why pharmacists do not seek postgraduate degree, as well as motivational factors and obstacles in seeking postgraduate  education in pharmacy using 5 points Likert scale. Data was analyzed using  descriptive and inferential statistics with SPSS version 16.0.
Results: The study shows that 26 (34.7%) had a postgraduate degree in pharmacy discipline while 24 (32.0%) were undergoing a PG education in pharmacy. Year of graduation was not associated with possession of PG degree or an ongoing PG  program. Factors identified as obstacles towards seeking a PG degree in pharmacy include; uncertainty in time of completion (34.7%), inconsistency in academic calendar 31 (63.3%) and family pressure 15 (30.6%). Provision of financial aids was not considered a motivational factor as indicated by 37 (75.5%). Majority 41 (83.7%) will obtain PG degree if the program is available on part-time basis. Granting study leave and making PG degree prerequisite for promotion in places of work will encourage pharmacists to obtain PG degree as indicated by 96.2% and 73.1% of pharmacists with PG degree respectively.
Conclusion: Majority of the respondents do not have a PG degree in pharmacy. Many were willing to undergo postgraduate studies if the program is available on part time basis and there is consistency in University calendar. These factors should be  considered by stakeholders in order to improve PG education among pharmacists.

Keywords: Attitude of pharmacists, Postgraduate education, Pharmacists in Oyo State