Dr Showkat Hussain stresses role of teachers, parents to combat the menace
Pampore: In a concerted effort to address the pressing issue of drug addiction among students, the Department of Islamic Studies at GDC Pampore, in collaboration with the Islamic University of Science and Technology (IUST), Awantipora, organized a comprehensive session on drug de-addiction in the college conference hall last Wednesday.
The event, moderated by Dr. Reyaz Ahmed, a faculty member from the Department of Islamic Studies, and reported by Dr. Huzaifa Pandit, Assistant Professor of English, witnessed the active participation of faculty members and approximately 100 students from diverse academic backgrounds.
The program commenced with a soulful recitation of the Quran by Prof. Aijaz Manzoor, HOD of Political Science, creating a spiritual ambiance for the discussions. Dr. Iqbal Malik, HOD of Islamic Studies, provided an insightful introduction, outlining the program’s objectives. He emphasized the significance of integrating religious principles with public health policies to combat the menace of drug addiction effectively.
Dr. Showkat Hussain, Associate Professor of Islamic Studies at IUST Awantipora, led the first technical session, emphasizing the need to base approaches to drug de-addiction on religious principles. He provided a comprehensive overview of addiction and discussed strategies to address it from an Islamic perspective. Ather Shahbaz, SRF Islamic Studies at IUST, shared enlightening insights into the issue, citing data from various sources, adding depth to the discussion.
Prof. Dr. Huda Galzai, Principal of GDC Pampore, delivered a thought-provoking address on the sociological aspects of drug abuse. She highlighted the pivotal role of support structures like peer groups and families in preventing addiction. A felicitation ceremony followed, where certificates of appreciation were presented to the resource persons, faculty members, and others accompanying them.
Dr. Showkat Hussain, in an interview with Kashmir Reader, underscored the severity of the drug problem among the youth in educational institutions. He stressed the importance of understanding the root causes, focusing on family dynamics, peer influences, and neighborhood issues. He emphasized the collective responsibility of teachers, parents, and citizens in creating a safer society and combating the issue effectively. Dr. Hussain deemed the program a significant step toward awareness and action against drug addiction.
Dr. Galzai reiterated the college’s enduring commitment to the fight against drug addiction. She highlighted the collaboration with IUST Awantipora and emphasized the need for discreet vigilance on students. She suggested the formation of volunteer groups to monitor students, especially those in the vulnerable age group from 12th grade to college level. She expressed confidence that these efforts would pave the way for a drug-free college and positively influence society’s future.
This collaborative initiative between GDC Pampore and IUST Awantipora marks a significant stride in empowering the youth with knowledge and strategies to combat drug addiction effectively. The shared vision of creating a healthier, drug-free society drives these collective efforts, shaping a brighter future for generations to come.