Dr. Anna Naa Kwarley Quartey, affectionately called Miss Naa, is a recognizable figure in PSGH circles. She is a Pharmacist, Senior Lecturer, and a leading researcher at the Central University School of Pharmacy. She currently serves as the Head of Department for Pharmaceutical Sciences and is a member of the Educational and Editorial Committee of the GCPCUL. Miss Naa has been instrumental in organizing the PSGH AGMs, most notably leading the food and beverages committee for the past 6 years.

1. Kindly tell us about yourself

I am Anna Naa Kwarley Quartey. Though born in Jamestown, Accra, I spent my early years in Kumasi. My formal education began at Bishop Girls’ High Street, opposite the Bank of Ghana. After my parents relocated to Kumasi, I continued at St. Leo in South Suntreso. I attended Yaa Asantewaa Girls’ High School, where I served as the Scripture Union (SU) president.At KNUST, where I studied Pharmacy, I was the Public Relations Officer (PRO) for the Ghana Pharmaceutical Students Association (GPSA). This role brought me into contact with Dr. Daniel Amaning, now the Registrar of the Pharmacy Council, who redirected my career path. Initially, I wanted to work in the industry with LaGray, but Dr. Amaning suggested I explore academia at Central University instead. That’s how I ended up at CU, and I’m still there today.I’ve always had a passion for Pharmacognosy, so although I began as a Teaching Assistant in Pharmaceutical Chemistry, I didn’t hesitate when asked to move to Pharmacognosy and work with Akosua Bemah Oppong.Many of my colleagues know about my entrepreneurial side. I currently own and manage a few Community Pharmacies in Accra.

2. Can you walk us through your time as a member of the GCPCUL, beginning from the circumstances that culminated in your membership and your most memorable experience(s) with the Union?

I joined the credit union movement back in my school days, around 2010, when the student savings club opened up to me. Although I didn’t save much during that time, I became a full member after graduating. The credit union’s appeal to me was the perception of it being a haven for saving. I’ve introduced many friends to the union, and they’re happy to be part of it.

3. How have those experiences in GCPCUL been of benefit to you?

The biggest draw of the credit union for me is the visible interest on my savings. Unlike my bank account, I receive a monthly notification of the interest earned on my credit union savings. The R/O service has also helped me develop a consistent savings habit. I have also obtained some facilities that have also helped build my businesses.

4. You mentioned that you have led several of your friends to the Union. What message do you give to bring them in?

I simply tell them about the access to facilities at better rates and with much ease. The prospect of no collateral requirements, relatively lower interest rates, and a straightforward application process is enough to win them over. Many of my business-minded friends credit the union as a backbone to the success of their enterprises.

5. What nuggets of wisdom would you like to share with GCPCUL members, so they maximise the benefits of membership?

The potential of the credit union is clear for all to see. Nevertheless, we should intensify our educational efforts and bring in more members. Is there a way to make all pharmacists default members? We should explore this possibility. GCPCUL is a great financial resource for creating “pharma-wealth,” and it’s crucial to bring all pharmacists into the fold.

6. What are the highlights (highs and lows) of your professional journey?

Academia wasn’t my initial passion; I never saw myself as a lecturer. By divine intervention, I ended up in this field. Dr. Amaning Danquah played a pivotal role by posting me to Central University as a Teaching Assistant. Mr. Mintah then mentored me into the academic I am today, advocating for my cohort to pursue Masters and PhD degrees. The tremendous opportunities extended to me by CU are something I’ll forever be grateful for.Although I trained further in pharmaceutical chemistry, circumstances at CU led me to transition to Pharmacognosy. Akosua Bemah Oppong took me under her wing and coached me to deliver lectures in my new Department. I’ve had the opportunity to serve on various committees at CU and have received recognition and commendation for my service. I also benefited from a grant to pursue my PhD from Central University. Quite recently, I was recognized by the SRC as the best lecturer in Central University. I am currently the Vice President of Central University Teachers Association (CUTA). These successes serve as highlights of my professional journey, and I’m grateful for each one.

7. What has been your key driving force to coming this far?

The joy of being a changemaker is what motivates me every morning. Every day presents an opportunity to make a positive difference in the lives of others.

8. What didn’t you know about life before now that you wish someone had told you?

On the business side, my dream is to be a businessperson, but I ended up in academia. I’m still striving to build my business side. I wish someone had shown me the shortest route to becoming a millionaire. At the moment, I’m having to juggle too many things to reach that goal.

9. How would you describe your typical day at work?

I arrive at work around 7:30 am each day. I make sure to have a to-do list before starting. While at work, I attend meetings, handle welfare issues, meet with students, and have research discussions with colleagues. After school, I visit my pharmacies to check on operations and address any outstanding matters.

10. What do you enjoy most about your work?

Meeting my students in class is the most enjoyable part of my work. The opportunity to impart knowledge and serve as a role model to these students is a fulfilling experience that words cannot fully capture.

11. What version of Miss Naa would we see in the next 10 years?

In the next ten years, you’ll see a more family-focused Naa. Building a family is one of the best things that can happen to anyone, and that’s a commitment I’m making. Hopefully, I’ll also achieve the rank of full professor. And if God wills it, I’ll expand into small-scale manufacturing while acquiring more pharmacies.