The College of Health and Medical Technologies organized an extensive awareness seminar titled “A Drug-Free Iraq,” in line with the directives of the Dean of the College, Dr. Zahraa Haleem, the college’s programs supporting the Sustainable Development Goals, and the guidelines of the Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research. The seminar was held in cooperation with the Directorate of Drug Control and Psychotropic Substances, with the aim of enhancing community awareness regarding the dangers of drugs and their escalating impacts.
The seminar was attended by Brigadier Haider Hasson Al-Saadi, Director of Drug Control and Psychotropic Substances, and Mr. Salam, the legal advisor at the directorate, while the session was moderated by Dr. Noaman Al-Khazraji.
The seminar opened with remarks by Dr. Muthaffar Al-Zuhairi, Director of Scientific and Academic Supervision at the university, who emphasized the importance of intensifying awareness programs among university students and young people, as they represent the group most vulnerable to targeting. He underscored the need to promote a culture of prevention and collective responsibility in confronting this phenomenon to safeguard the community’s security and public health.
During the seminar, Brigadier Al-Saadi reviewed the major national efforts undertaken to combat drugs, addressing the latest statistics, field procedures, and awareness programs adopted by the directorate. He also called for strengthening coordination between security institutions, universities, and community organizations to ensure tangible progress in limiting the spread of drugs.
For his part, Mr. Salam highlighted the legal framework related to drug consumption and trafficking, explaining the penalties stipulated by law and the responsibilities of individuals in avoiding the legal and social risks associated with drug use.
The event witnessed wide engagement from students and attendees, who raised questions and comments that enriched the discussion and reflected their awareness of the importance of confronting this issue.
At the conclusion of the seminar, the college’s Assistant Dean for Scientific Affairs, Dr. Ahmed Adnan Al-Khafaji, presented certificates of appreciation to the speakers, expressing the college’s gratitude for their efforts and their active role in supporting community awareness. The college also reaffirmed its commitment to continuing awareness activities that promote public health and contribute to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals.
Al-Mustaqbal University
The first University in Iraq