Karachi police formulate anti-drug policy with educational institutions

KARACHI: In an effort to combat the growing threat of drug use in educational institutions, South Zone police have developed a comprehensive anti-drug policy in collaboration with the administrations of 22 schools, colleges and universities across the district.

South Deputy Inspector General of Police Syed Asad Raza said the policy aims to create a safe, healthy and drug-free learning environment through prevention, early intervention, parental involvement, rehabilitation, institutional accountability and legal enforcement.

According to the policy, anti-drug committees will be established in educational institutions, comprising administrators, teachers, parents and law enforcement representatives.

Institutions will also conduct regular seminars and awareness campaigns to educate students about the dangers and consequences of substance abuse.

The policy encourages stronger cooperation between educational institutions, parents, healthcare professionals and police to identify at-risk students, facilitate counselling and rehabilitation, and prevent drug suppliers and criminal elements from targeting students.

As part of the initiative, parents or guardians may be required to sign a drug prevention declaration at the time of admission, authorising institutions to conduct lawful drug-screening programmes. Schools and universities will also work closely with law enforcement agencies to report suspected drug-related activities.

Police have already established a Campus Security and Substance Abuse Watch, including female officers, to enhance surveillance around educational institutions.

Authorities said 20 private schools, eight colleges and four universities in Karachi’s South district are currently under surveillance, while regular progress reports on enforcement and awareness activities have been made mandatory.