MUZAFFARABAD: Scholars College of Sciences and Information Technology, in collaboration with Civil Society Network Pakistan, organized 10th National Anti-Drug Conference at Government Postgraduate College Muzaffarabad to highlight the growing threat of drug abuse among the youth in Azad Jammu & Kashmir (AJK) and Pakistan.
The event drew over 300 participants, including students, teachers, civil society representatives and members of the public. AJK Additional Secretary for Higher Education Raja Shahid Hussain attended the conference as chief guest, alongside Acting Director General Health AJK Dr Farooq Awan, Chairman Civil Society Network Pakistan Akmal Owaisi and Chairman Scholars Executive Council Syed Iftikhar Hussain Kazmi.
Speaking on the occasion, Raja Shahid Hussain stressed the urgent need for nationwide awareness efforts to curb the rising trend of drug addiction. He said youth must be empowered to act as ambassadors against substance abuse, adding that healthy and productive engagements can steer them away from destructive habits. “If we fail to provide timely awareness, future generations may fall deeper into the trap of addiction,” he warned. “Drug use may offer momentary relief, but it ultimately damages mental health, creative potential and overall performance. A healthy society can only emerge when all institutions and communities work together”, he said.
Acting DG Health Dr Farooq Awan echoed similar concerns, stating that addiction deprives individuals of the ability to lead a healthy and meaningful life. He urged parents and teachers to play a proactive role in guidance and counselling, adding that unchecked exposure to harmful environments can put every household at risk.
Other speakers underscored the need for a coordinated strategy involving government agencies, educational institutions, civil society organisations and policy-makers. They emphasised counselling for drug-dependent individuals and safeguarding students from negative social influences.
Concluding the event, Chairman Civil Society Network Pakistan Akmal Owaisi and Chairman Scholars Executive Council Syed Iftikhar Hussain Kazmi thanked the participants and reaffirmed their commitment to continuing nationwide awareness campaigns. Joint efforts by students, teachers, civil society and the government are crucial to protecting the youth from addiction and promoting healthier lifestyles, he added.