The Faculty of Pharmacy at Tishk International University (TIU) organized a community project to address drug misuse and abuse. At the beginning of the academic year, a dedicated committee of students and faculty members was formed to oversee the initiative. This team met early in the year to plan activities, discuss goals, and develop impactful ideas. The program’s primary objective was to raise community awareness, particularly among the younger generation, and to provide students with a deeper understanding of these critical issues.
On May 6 and 7, 2025, the team visited Nilufer Girls’ High School and Ishik Ronaki International School. The purpose of these school visits was to promote healthy living choices and educate students about the dangers of drug usage. Pharmacy students delivered engaging and insightful presentations. They discussed important topics such as bacteria, diseases, and the mechanism of antibiotic activity. They also explained how the overuse or misuse of antibiotics can lead to bacterial resistance. Additionally, the health risks associated with smoking were highlighted, with a special focus on the dangers of secondhand smoke.
To make the lessons more interactive, the students incorporated a question-and-answer section, games, and activities. This approach helped the high school students to actively participate and better retain the information. Small gifts were given to participants as a token of appreciation for their engagement.
This project’s main goal was to educate youth about the hazards of drug abuse and equip them with preventative knowledge. For the pharmacy students, it was an opportunity to improve their public speaking skills and become more involved in their community. These efforts highlight the significant impact that education can have on people’s lives, paving the way for a healthier, more informed future generation.
Keywords: Drug Awareness, Community Outreach, Pharmacy, Tishk International University, TIU, Healthy Living, Students, Education, Public Health
