Saying no to drugs

Punjab government has issued instructions for enforcing the ban on drugs in educational institutions

Drug use amongst the younger generation in Pakistan has been a cause for concern for years however up till now comprehensive anti-drug campaigns focusing on young people, have not existed. The Punjab government has now issued instructions to district education officers for enforcing the ban on drugs in educational institutions. The district authorities have also been advised to ensure that information regarding the impact of smoking on health is prominently displayed. The measure comes following a report presented to the Senate where an alarming increase in drugs was reported amongst private school students in Islamabad. Anecdotal evidence also points to an increase in drug use amongst college and university students.

Drug use is particularly dangerous for younger individuals since the chances of long-term addiction increase depending on age. For teenagers drugs act not only as stimulants but can also permanently alter the chemical makeup of the brain. Those who are unaware of the danger that drugs pose are more likely to use drugs through succumbing to peer pressure. Preventative measures such as awareness campaigns have been shown to be effective in reducing the incidences of drug usage amongst adolescents. The Punjab government’s directive is therefore laudable. However, it must be noted that the success of such schemes relies on proper implementation. Although Pakistan has a National Narcotics Control Committee and a National Anti-Narcotics Policy, campaigns to discourage drug use and to inform the public about the effects of drugs, not just smoking, are seldom seen. Provincial governments are required to make significant contributions to the success of this policy and perhaps the Punjab government’s initiative will prove to be one such step. The government should also look into establishing more rehabilitation centres which provide free counselling sessions, in coordination with schools and colleges, that are geared towards younger drug addicts to wean them off.

Published in The Express Tribune, November 14^th, 2016.

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