GUJRAT — The Department of Sociology at the University of Gujrat organized a seminar titled Drug-Free Punjab at Hafiz Hayat Campus as part of its week-long awareness campaign against narcotics. The seminar aimed to educate students about the harmful effects of drugs and inspire them to act as social ambassadors for promoting healthy values in society.
Lieutenant Colonel (retd) Faisal Mahmood, Tamgha-e-Imtiaz, Director of the Counter Narcotics Force (CNF) Gujrat, was the chief guest of the session with Chairperson Dr. Muhammad Shoaib in the host’s chair. In his keynote address, Lt-Col. Faisal Mahmood highlighted CNF’s mission and efforts to eradicate drugs, stressing that awareness is a collective responsibility. He warned that drug addiction undermines the foundations of society, with nearly 10 million people in Pakistan affected, 67% of them between the ages of 15 and 34. He urged students to safeguard their future by rejecting drugs and supporting rehabilitation for victims, who should be treated as patients rather than outcasts.
The seminar featured documentaries and training sessions to sensitize students about prevention strategies. Dr. Shoaib emphasized that youth must uphold parental trust and resist destructive habits, while institutions continue their efforts to eliminate narcotics. The event concluded with a speech competition on anti-narcotics awareness, where outstanding students received certificates of appreciation. Faculty, students, and CNF teams participated enthusiastically, reinforcing the collective resolve for a drug-free Punjab.