Science-based, integrated approach to curb youth drug abuse: Minister

Social Welfare and Women and Child Affairs Minister Professor Dr AZM Zahid Hossain has called for the implementation of science-based and integrated public health strategies, aligned with international standards, to protect young people from the devastating impact of drug abuse.

He stressed that efforts should not be confined to fear-based messaging or prohibition-focused campaigns alone.

The minister said building a drug-free society requires a coordinated approach involving the government, educational institutions, families and social organizations, rather than relying solely on law enforcement measures.

Dr Zahid Hossain made the remarks as the chief guest at a seminar “Evidence-Based Initiatives for Preventing Drug Use Among Youth”, held on Sunday at the auditorium of Ahsanullah University of Science and Technology (AUST), marking the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking 2026. The event was organized by AUST, with jointsupport from Dhaka Ahsania Mission and the ISSUP Bangladesh Chapter.

Director General of the Department of Narcotics Control Md Hasan Maruf said alongside law enforcement efforts, scientific research is essential to assess the effectiveness of preventive initiatives aimed at combating drug abuse. He also emphasized the need for the participation of non-governmental organisations and educational institutions alongside government efforts.

Dr MA Mohit Kamal, chairman of the ISSUP Bangladesh Chapter, warned e-cigarettes are increasingly being mixed with various chemicals and addictive substances and, in many cases, are serving as a gateway to drug use. He called for effective regulatory measures to control e-cigarette use.

In his keynote paper, Iqbal Masud, director of the Health Sector at Dhaka Ahsania Mission and general secretary of ISSUP Bangladesh, underscored the importance of rehabilitation-based recovery programmes and the scientific evaluation of existing interventions.

In his presidential address, AUST Vice-Chancellor Professor Dr Md Ashraful Haque called for collective efforts to build drug-free campuses and a healthier society.

Representatives from government and non-government organizations, public health experts and researchers participated at the seminar.