THE increasing consumption of drugs among university students is quite distu-rbing. Though not exclusively, the problem is particularly rampant in Islamabad, the federal capital. As a university student and an active member of the academic community, I find it alarming because the problem has witnessed a spike in recent years.

While the reasons behind this surge are multifaceted, many students are turning to illicit substances to cope with the intense pressures of academic life, societal expectations, and personal struggles. These young individuals, who should be focussing on their studies and building their futures, are falling into a dangerous trap that is bound to have lifelong consequences.

What makes this situation more alar-ming is that this problem often goes unnoticed until a student’s academic performance suffers, or a life is lost to addiction or overdose. The consequences of drug abuse extend far beyond the individual. It weakens the fabric of society by contributing to rising crime rates, straining the healthcare system, and robbing the nation of the bright potential such students hold.

As a community, we have the power to act. Universities must create an enviro-nment where students feel supported, not overwhelmed. More counselling services, stress management programmes, and accessible mental health resources are needed. In tandem, awareness cam-paigns should focus on the harsh realities of drug use as well as its physical, psy-chological and social costs.

Frankly, we must ask ourselves if we can afford to sit idle while our future leaders, innovators and thinkers fall prey to drugs. We should take meaningful action to control the crisis. The government, the educational institutions, and the public at large need to unite and confront the issue without any further delay at all.

Together, we can surely offer the support and awareness needed to help our youth break free from the grasp of drugs, and thereby build a healthier, brighter future.

Zaid Khan
Islamabad

Published in Dawn, January 10th, 2025