Mangaluru: St Aloysius Pre-University College has been a pioneer in educational and social initiatives aimed at shaping the future of its students. This year, the college reaffirmed its commitment to student well-being by hosting the annual Drug Awareness Week, organized by the Department of Counselling. The event aimed to educate students about the dangers of drug abuse and promote a healthy, drug-free lifestyle under the theme, “One World, One Goal: A Drug-Free Future for All.”
Throughout the week, the college buzzed with meticulously designed activities to engage and educate students. Competitions such as face painting, e-poster designing, and a notice board competition allowed participants to express their thoughts on drug prevention in innovative ways. Renowned psychiatrists including Dr. Manu Acharya, Dr. Keshav Pai, Dr. Avinash G Kamath, and Dr. Rahul Rao delivered insightful sessions on addiction and its repercussions, equipping students with valuable knowledge on recognizing early signs of addiction and seeking appropriate support.
Distinguished guest speakers, including Sub Inspector Sudeep KV from the Mangalore City Police Commissionerate and social activist Mr. Ganesh Mulki Nayak, emphasized the critical roles of community involvement and law enforcement in addressing drug-related issues. The highlight of Drug Awareness Week was a collaborative program between the Department of Counselling and various agencies, including the district administration, Mangalore City Police Commissionerate, Mangalore Customs Commissionerate, and the Indian Coast Guard. This joint awareness program aimed at promoting a drug-free India was held in the Loyola Hall of St Aloysius PU College.
In observance of World Drug Day, college students performed a thought-provoking skit that creatively conveyed the message of prevention, aligning with the theme of World Drug Day 2024: “The evidence is clear: Invest in prevention.” This skit resonated profoundly with the audience, emphasizing the importance of proactive measures in combating drug abuse.
The final session, conducted by Dr. Rahul Rao, centered on the theme of Drug Awareness Week, emphasizing “One Dream, One Goal: A Drug-Free Future for All.”
The Drug Awareness Week at St Aloysius Pre-University College concluded successfully, leaving a significant impact on students and staff alike. By fostering awareness and dialogue about the dangers of drug abuse, the event reinforced the college’s unwavering commitment to cultivating a healthy and drug-free environment. Looking ahead, the Department of Counselling remains dedicated to organizing similar initiatives aimed at promoting well-being and resilience among students. By continuing to educate and empower the community, the college aspires to build a brighter future, free from the scourge of drug abuse.