On the 17th of February, an educational outreach visit to Ishik Boys High School was conducted as part of an ongoing community service project aimed at raising awareness about the dangers of drug misuse and abuse among adolescents. The visit was meticulously organized and supervised by research assistants Dr. Aya Diyar, Dr. Shagull Sameea, and Dr. Daniah Issa, in collaboration with Dr. Serdar Deyan (DOS representative), all of whom played vital roles in the planning and execution of the event. During the session, pharmacy students Bahra Kadhem, Bana Saoud, and Malak Aws delivered comprehensive presentations focusing on the misuse of commonly encountered substances, specifically antibiotics, caffeine, and nicotine. Each student addressed the risks, health consequences, and misconceptions associated with the improper use of these drugs. Their presentations were designed to be interactive and engaging, encouraging students to reflect on their own experiences and to ask questions freely. The event also featured a dynamic Q&A session, providing high school students with the opportunity to voice their concerns, clarify doubts, and seek advice directly from those studying in the field of pharmacy. This open dialogue fostered a supportive learning environment and helped bridge the gap between university students and the younger generation. To further encourage participation and demonstrate appreciation for the students’ engagement, small gifts were distributed to all attendees at the conclusion of the session. The positive response from the students and staff at Ishik Boys High School highlighted the impact and importance of such community-based initiatives. This project was made possible through the generous support and guidance of Asst. Prof. Dr. Mohammed Javed Naim, Head of the Pharmacy Department, and Asst. Prof. Dr. Abdulsamad Salahuddin, Dean of the Faculty of Pharmacy. Their leadership and commitment to community health were instrumental in bringing this meaningful educational event to fruition. The pharmacy students and organizers hope to continue such collaborations in the future, striving to educate and empower young individuals to make informed decisions regarding their health and well-being.
