Govt backs framework for drug-free campus

Initiative encourages move from punitive responses to rehabilitation, resilience

LAHORE:

The Punjab government has pledged support for expanding a framework designed to address substance abuse and mental health challenges among university students to educational institutions across the province.

After the Beaconhouse National University unveiled two manuals designed to provide an institutional framework for building a drug-free and psychologically supportive campus, the Higher Education Commission (HEC) has also initiated the process of establishing a committee led by Vice Chancellor Dr Moeed Yusuf to explore the replication of the model throughout the country.

Addressing the gathering, Punjab Senior Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb described the manuals as an empathy-driven blueprint that moves beyond punishment and focuses on building resilience among young people.

Dr Yusuf said the model seeks to tackle the root causes of substance use, while prioritising empathy, early intervention and psychological support.

According to university officials, the framework identified three major factors that increase students' vulnerability to drug use and emotional distress: unresolved childhood and family trauma, peer pressure and the communication gap that often exists between Generation-Z students and faculty members.

The 'From Risk to Resilience' manual provides a detailed roadmap for prevention, intervention and support mechanisms. It outlines procedures for identifying at risk students, creating support networks and promoting healthy alternatives through constructive engagement and extracurricular activities.

The framework also encourages universities to move away from purely punitive responses and focus on rehabilitation and resilience building.

In addition, a 'Campus Care' manual introduces a structured approach to psychological first aid, enabling teachers, administrative staff and student leaders to recognise signs of distress, provide immediate emotional support and refer students to counselling services when necessary.

Faculty and staff members are expected to undergo training sessions on recognising behavioural warning signs linked to substance use and mental health concerns. Student leaders and societies will also be engaged in awareness campaigns, peer support initiatives and outreach programmes. The university plans to strengthen counselling services and establish more robust reporting and referral mechanisms so that students facing emotional difficulties or addiction related issues can seek help confidentially and without fear of stigma. Additional emphasis will be placed on sports, arts and extracurricular activities as positive outlets for student engagement.

Dr Yusuf urged university leaders across the country to take proactive steps to protect young people and stressed that any effort to combat substance use must be rooted in empathy, engagement and personal growth.