Fatima Jinnah Medical University’s Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences organized an awareness seminar on Anti-Narcotics in collaboration with the Anti-Narcotics Force (ANF) Pakistan. Sikandar Hayat Ch, Commander and Regional Director of Anti-Narcotics Force Pakistan attended the seminar along Vice Chancellor FJMU Prof Dr. Khalid Masood Gondal.
In welcome address, VC Prof. Khalid Masood Gondal emphasized the significance of the seminar, highlighting the importance of timely awareness, prevention, and treatment in combating diseases. He reinforced this message by quoting a verse from the Holy Quran.
He also shed light on the university's support services, including a Counselling Centre specifically for the female students. He advised the judicious use of social media and expressed deepest gratitude to the nation's martyrs and their families, acknowledging the sacrifices made by soldiers that ensure peaceful sleep for citizens. The Vice Chancellor's words resonated deeply, inspiring a sense of responsibility, spirituality, and patriotism among the audience.
He also congratulated the Head of the Department of Psychiatry, Prof. Aysha Rashid, and her team for organizing the successful seminar.
Brigadier Sikandar Hayat Ch emphasized the importance of collective efforts in combating drug abuse, stressing that it is a societal issue that requires cooperation with the state. He highlighted the significant role health professionals play in managing addiction and encouraged empathetic treatment of these patients.
He shared some alarming facts about drug abuse, noting that weakness in faith, depression, and stress are primary reasons for addiction among younger generations. He advocated for special attention to children and promoted strengthening faith, self-confidence, strong family ties, and healthy activities as effective solutions to prevent drug abuse.
Principal Prof. Abdul Hameed, Registrar Prof. Dr Muhammad Nadeem, Deans Prof. Aliya Zahid, Prof. Naveed Akbar Hotiana, faculty members, and a large number of students attended the occasion.
In the seminar, the video tutorial by ANF Pakistan provided valuable information and insights on anti-narcotics efforts, highlighting the dangers of drug abuse and the importance of prevention. The question-and-answer session provided an opportunity for students to engage with the speakers, clarify their doubts, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics discussed. Brigadier Mr. Sikandar Hayat Chaudhry responded the questions effectively and befitting manners.
Principal Prof. Abdul Hamid's presented vote of thanks, acknowledged the efforts of the organizers, speakers, and participants. Vice Chancellor Prof. Dr. Khalid Gondal presented an honorary souvenir and a history book to Brigadier Sikandar Hayat Chaudhry.