BAJAUR: Pakistan Red Crescent Society (PRCS) local chapter organised a seminar here on Friday to raise awareness among students about the harmful effects of drug use.

The event, organised with the support of the district administration and a local NGO working to combat drug use in educational institutions, took place at government model school and college Khar.

According to a statement by the PRCS, the daylong session was attended by students and teachers from various public educational institutions, as well as elders, political and social activists, and PRCS volunteers.

The session aimed to raise awareness among students about the causes, impact, and preventive measures related to drug use in society.

The participants of the seminar were briefed on the significance of awareness in making the district free from drugs, whose use had witnessed a significant increase over the past several years.

Additional Deputy Commissioner (G) Ali Raza, officials from the education department and several educationists and religious leaders addressed the seminar, highlighting the major causes and effects of drug abuse in society.

The speakers urged the students not only to avoid drug use and foster a culture of wellness and healthy living but also to create awareness about the dangers of all kinds of narcotics in their respective areas.

The statement noted that the session enhanced the participants’ knowledge and awareness, providing them with a better understanding of drug abuse and its consequences.

Furthermore, it emphasised that awareness was the most effective and straightforward way to mitigate the risk of drug abuse in society.

The seminar concluded with the participants pledging to work together to eliminate the illegal trade and use of all drugs in the district once and for all, the statement concluded.

Published in Dawn, December 21st, 2024