KU highlights use of substances among youth

The University of Karachi in collaboration with the Ministry of Narcotics Control and Antinarcotics Force organized an awareness session on drug abuse and addiction at the Karachi University Business School Auditorium on Wednesday. The KU Campus and Security Office arranged the event to inform students about the destructive impact of the use of drugs and substances on human life.

The KU Campus Security Advisor Dr Salman Zubair while quoting the ANF report, shared that 23 percent of the students in different universities have used vape and added that most of them are unaware of its harmful effects on minds and bodies while 17 percent of university-level students have used sheesha once in their student life.

He mentioned that concerned officials have found out that online drug purchases are on the rise due to high demands for substances and different types of drugs among the youth. He informed the audience that according to a survey conducted by the Pakistan Narcotics Control Board 44 percent of students in universities and colleges use drugs. Another study revealed that one in five students in Pakistani schools have tried drugs at least once. The most common reasons cited for drug use among students include exam stress, peer pressure, and curiosity.

Dr Salman Zubair said that a growing concern is the increasing use of new sources of drug use among youngsters in Pakistan. Referring to the Pakistan Narcotics Control Board survey report, he mentioned that male students are more likely to use drugs, with 53 percent reporting drug use compared to 31 percent of female students. However, female students are more likely to use prescription drugs and sedatives, with 21 percent reporting use compared to 15 percent of male students.

He mentioned that a study found that 71 percent of male students and 56 percent of female students in Pakistani universities reported knowing someone who uses drugs. The consequences of drug use among young people are severe and long-lasting, including, impaired cognitive function and memory loss, increased risk of mental health disorders, such as depression and anxiety, and higher risk of engaging in risky behaviors, such as unprotected sex and dangerous driving, decreased academic performance and increased dropout rates, strained relationships with family and friends, increased risk of overdose and death.

He expressed that recovery is possible as there is always hope if support is available. The use of drugs and substances are pressing issues that affect not only individuals but also families, communities, and society as a whole. The consequences of drug addiction can be devastating, leading to ruined lives, shattered dreams, and even loss of life.

He shared that according to the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), Pakistan has an estimated 7.6 million drug users, and it lies at the crossroads of major drug trafficking routes, making it vulnerable to drug smuggling and abuse. The Ministry of Narcotics Control reports a 12 percent increase in drug-related arrests in 2020 compared to the previous year.

As per the UNODC report, drug abuse costs the global economy over US$500 billion annually in healthcare, crime, and lost productivity.

“Through this event, we aim to educate, raise awareness, and provide resources to help individuals struggling with addiction, as well as support those who care about them. We’ll explore the causes, effects, and solutions to drug abuse and addiction, and most importantly, we’ll offer a message of hope and resilience. Let’s work together to create a supportive community that encourages healthy choices and empowers individuals to overcome addiction. Thank you for joining us, and let’s get started on this important journey.”

Later, a Senior Clinical Psychologist at the Clinical Incharge Rehab of MATRC, ANF Sindh, Dr Nooreen Begum, during her presentation described different types of drugs used in the country and their effects on the minds and body of individuals.

She shared how people who use drugs behave with family members, friends, and society and how he or she become sober again.

On this occasion, the KU Vice Chancellor Professor Dr Khalid Mahmood Iraqi said that we can reduce the use of drugs and substances by promoting awareness about the harm caused by drug use and its negative effects on society.

He observed that parents can play a key role in protecting children from drug use. He mentioned that parents should keep an eye on their children so that they can avoid the use of substances and drugs.

The Regional Directorate Commander, Anti Narcotics Force, Sindh, Lt. Conl. Shakir ullah Khan, chairpersons and heads of several departments, and others were also present on this occasion.