Marki Aadil
Srinagar, May 13: The Department of Education at University of Kashmir on Wednesday organised a documentary screening to raise awareness about the growing challenge of substance abuse among youth and to underline the importance of community-based prevention and support mechanisms.
The documentary, titled “Drug Addiction – A Threat to Life,” was screened at the department’s seminar hall in the presence of students from MA Education, B.Ed and M.Ed programmes, along with faculty members and staff.
The screening highlighted the psychological, physical and social consequences of drug addiction, while stressing the need for empathy, counselling and collective social responsibility in addressing the issue.
During the programme, mental health counsellors emphasised that individuals struggling with addiction should not be viewed through a judgmental lens. Instead, they called for understanding, emotional support and compassionate engagement, observing that stigma often discourages affected individuals from seeking timely help.
The documentary also featured Vice Chancellor Prof. Nilofer Khan, who encouraged students to actively participate in constructive university initiatives, including programmes organised by the NSS and DSW. She noted that engagement in academic, cultural and social activities plays a vital role in fostering confidence, responsibility and a healthy campus environment.
Talking to correspondent, Head of the Department of Education Prof. Amina Parveen said that tackling substance abuse requires a collective effort involving parents, teachers, peer groups and society at large.
She said that since the department is actively involved in teacher training programmes, it is essential to equip future educators with the sensitivity and understanding needed to recognise behavioural challenges among students and guide them positively within educational spaces.
She added that such awareness initiatives are aimed at helping teacher trainees develop a humane and supportive approach while dealing with students both in schools and society.
Participants described the screening as informative and thought-provoking, saying it opened meaningful discussions on mental health, youth engagement and the role educational institutions can play in creating awareness against drug abuse.
