Media Release

Mangaluru, Jul 19: In an effort to combat the growing concerns of tobacco and substance addiction among youth, Carmel School, Mangaluru, organized a powerful awareness programme titled ‘Tobacco-Free World’ under the theme ‘Say No to addiction – Yes to life, dreams, and hope.” The event aimed to educate students about the harmful effects of addiction and to promote a healthy and purpose-driven lifestyle.

The programme began with a short prayer, setting a thoughtful tone for the day. Lidwin D’Souza welcomed the gathering and introduced the chief guest.

The chief guest of the event, Lydia Lobo, administrator at LINK Integrated Rehabilitation Center for Addicts, Bejai, Mangaluru, was warmly received with a symbolic sapling presented by sister Rosevera, the principal of Carmel School.

In her keynote address, Mrs Lobo highlighted the severe impact of tobacco and substance use on young lives. She shed light on the common causes of addiction such as curiosity, peer pressure, low self-esteem, and a desire to escape reality. The session outlined various forms of addiction – from tobacco and alcohol to cannabis, heroin, and misuse of medical drugs – and emphasized their destructive effects on physical health, academic performance, and mental well-being.

Mrs Lobo’s message was reinforced through a discussion on how addiction can derail lives, break families, and rob young people of their dreams and potential. Her engaging and heartfelt address left a deep impression on the audience.

The programme concluded with a vote of thanks by Vinitha Nishma Veigas, acknowledging the guest speaker and all contributors. Students took away a strong message: that saying NO to addiction is saying YES to a future full of life, hope, and opportunity.