Student screening at campuses proposed to curb drug use

KARACHI:

District South has drafted an anti-narcotics policy proposing to declare all schools, colleges and universities drug-free, tobacco-free and vape-free zones to curb rising drug use among students.

DIG South Syed Asad Raza prepared the draft titled "Youth Protection, Safe Future" and sent it to educational institutions for consultation and approval.

The policy outlines practical steps to protect students from drugs, vaping and tobacco products. Under the draft, student screening and testing will be allowed with parental consent. In suspected cases, guidance, rehabilitation and parental involvement will be made mandatory instead of immediate punishment.

A positive drug test in the initial stage will be treated as a welfare and rehabilitation issue, not a disciplinary offence. The draft recommends establishing anti-drug committees in every institution with the principal, counsellor, teachers, parents and law enforcement representatives as members.

It proposes a zero-tolerance policy against the sale, supply and promotion of narcotics on campuses. Within legal limits, searches of student desks, lockers and personal belongings will also be permitted.

The policy calls for regular awareness seminars, workshops and lectures for students. Special monitoring of drug supply through social media and online platforms is also suggested, along with enhanced information sharing between educational institutions and police. A targeted crackdown on drug dealers and criminal elements operating near schools and colleges has been ordered.

Protection of student privacy and confidentiality of information has been made a core principle of the policy. Parents will be required to submit an anti-drug declaration at the time of admission. DIG South Syed Asad Raza said the objective is not to punish students but to ensure early detection, treatment and rehabilitation. "The aim is to provide the young generation with a safe and healthy future," he said. The draft is now under review by schools and universities in District South before final approval.