The Ethiopian Pharmacists and Pharmaceutical Scientists Association in Diaspora (EPPAD) is pleased to announce its first Inaugural Symposium on Saturday, February 16, 2019 at the Embassy of Ethiopia, Washington DC. EPPAD as a non-profit association of Ethiopian pharmaceutical professionals in diaspora incorporated in the State of Virginia. The association aims to bring pharmaceutical and allied professionals together and serve as a platform for policy dialogue, knowledge exchange, promotion of business and access to safe and quality medicines here and in Ethiopia. EPPAD convened its first consultative networking event on October 6, 2018 by bringing together a cross-section of professionals from industry, academia, government, and pharmacy practice. At this meeting, consensus was reached to form working/interest groups that will coordinate the planning and implementation of interventions by mobilizing expertise, technology, resources and investment in response to the current conducive political climate and address the many challenges of the pharmaceutical sector in Ethiopia. The key interest groups will be: (1) philanthropic resource mobilization; (2) business development in pharmaceutical manufacturing, supply chain and R&D; (3) human capacity development through training and mentorship; and (4) advocacy in policy and regulatory matters. The one-day symposium will have three parts: (1) featuring distinguished speakers from industry, academia, regulatory, and pharmacy practice; (2) formation of thematic groups and development of action plans; and (3) accredited continuing professional education on HIV & AIDS and medication safety with focus on Ethiopia. Also, the symposium will be an opportunity for professionals to meet, reminisce, and network with each other. The symposium will be convened on Saturday, February 16, 2019 from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM at the meeting hall of the Embassy of Ethiopia, 3506 International Drive, N.W. Washington DC 20008. Please visit EPPAD website and social media accounts to learn more about the organization and about the inaugural symposium., Website: https://www.eppad.org/, Twitter: @eppad1, Facebook: @eppad2018, and LinkedIn: eppad Contact – Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. -Phone: 301-675-3384/571-277-1823 -Address: 8530 Gwynedd way Springfield, VA 22153 .