On 21–22 May 2026, the 5th Pharmacy Game International Symposium took place at the Anda Kerkhoven Centre in Groningen, the Netherlands, marking a special jubilee edition of this growing international event. This year’s theme, “Simulation and Gamification in Pharmacy Curricula: Enhancing Competency and Practice Readiness,” set the stage for the programme.

The symposium welcomed participants from 17 universities worldwide, both in person and virtually, reflecting the expanding global reach and impact of the Pharmacy Game educational concept. The event provided a dynamic platform for sharing knowledge, exchanging experiences, and fostering collaboration in simulation- and game-based learning in pharmacy education.

The symposium was officially opened by Prof. dr. Joost Frenken, FSE Dean, setting the stage for two days of engaging discussions and innovation. A diverse programme followed, featuring keynote lectures and interactive workshops delivered by experts from the University of Groningen, Hanze University of Applied Sciences, partner universities, and other international institutions from Estonia, Finland, Croatia, and Romania.

The Students’ International Debate on Practice Readiness in Pharmacy Education was organised for the second time. The Chair of the Education Committee of the International Pharmaceutical Students’ Federation (IPSF) led the discussion on how effectively current educational approaches prepare graduates for real-world practice. Key topics included students’ expectations of practice readiness across countries, gaps between academic training and professional practice, and the diversity of pharmacy education systems and resources worldwide. The session highlighted the perspectives of future pharmacists and emphasised the value of simulation and gamification in enhancing practice readiness.

Another standout experience was the Pildorp Healthcare Market, organised by third-year MSc Pharmacy students participating in the Pharmacy Game, GIMMICS course in Groningen. This interactive activity showcased the practical application of simulation-based learning. Participants visited the Skills Lab Pharmacy in Groningen and contributed to selecting the best healthcare project.

Celebrating its fifth edition, the symposium reaffirmed its mission to strengthen the international Pharmacy Game community and inspire continued innovation in pharmacy education and professional practice worldwide. Five years ago, the Pharmacy Game International began with a vision and a small group of believers; today, it has grown into a global community.

The game has evolved significantly, with a fully rebuilt platform and new modules such as the one on environmental sustainability, reflecting current challenges in healthcare and pharmacy education. Its academic impact has expanded, resulting in three peer-reviewed publications and the first PhD thesis within the network, strengthening its scientific foundation. The community has actively engaged with the wider profession through workshops, webinars, and international conferences, contributing to ongoing innovation in pharmacy education. Through five symposia and regular meetings, a strong international network has emerged. This foundation has been reinforced through partner university awards and a shared commitment to ongoing development and collaboration.