Punjab backs university framework for drug-free campuses

LAHORE: The Punjab government has endorsed a university framework aimed at addressing substance abuse and mental health issues among students, with plans to support its expansion to educational institutions across the province.

The move follows the unveiling at Beaconhouse National University of two manuals intended to help institutions create drug-free and psychologically supportive campuses. Alongside the provincial initiative, the Higher Education Commission has begun the process of forming a committee under Vice Chancellor Dr Moeed Yusuf to examine whether the model can be replicated nationwide.

Speaking at the event, Punjab Senior Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb described the manuals as a framework built on empathy that shifts the focus away from punishment and towards strengthening young people’s resilience. Dr Yusuf said the model is designed to address the underlying causes of substance use while giving priority to empathy, early intervention and psychological support.

Framework identifies key risk factors

University officials said the framework highlights three main factors that can make students more vulnerable to drug use and emotional distress: unresolved trauma linked to childhood and family life, pressure from peers, and a communication gap that often exists between Generation-Z students and faculty members.

One of the two guides, titled From Risk to Resilience, sets out a structured plan for prevention, intervention and support. It includes procedures for identifying students considered at risk, building support systems around them, and encouraging healthy alternatives through constructive engagement and extracurricular participation. The framework also calls on universities to move beyond responses based solely on punishment and instead emphasise rehabilitation and resilience.

Psychological first aid and staff training

The second manual, Campus Care, lays out a structured model for psychological first aid. It is intended to help teachers, administrative personnel and student leaders recognise signs of distress, offer immediate emotional support and refer students for counselling when needed.

Under the plan, faculty and staff are to receive training to identify behavioural warning signs associated with substance use and mental health concerns. Student leaders and campus societies are also expected to take part in awareness drives, peer-support efforts and outreach activities.

The university also plans to strengthen counselling services and put in place stronger reporting and referral systems so that students dealing with emotional difficulties or addiction-related problems can seek assistance confidentially and without fear of stigma. The framework further places emphasis on sports, arts and other extracurricular activities as positive channels for student engagement.

Dr Yusuf urged university leadership across Pakistan to take proactive measures for the protection of young people, stressing that efforts to tackle substance use should be grounded in empathy, engagement and personal development.