Media Release
Mangaluru, Jul 1: The department of counselling, St Aloysius Pre-University College, Mangaluru, observed Drug Awareness Week during June 2026 in commemoration of the International Day against drug abuse and illicit trafficking on June 26. The initiative aimed to educate students about the harmful effects of substance abuse, with special emphasis on the growing concern of vaping among adolescents, while encouraging them to adopt healthy and responsible lifestyles. The observance aligned with the 2026 global theme, ‘The World Drug Problem: Persisting Issues, New Challenges, Innovative Responses'.
As a part of the week-long programme, a series of awareness sessions was conducted for students by eminent psychiatrists from Mangaluru. The sessions were led by Dr Keerthana Nayak, senior resident, department of psychiatry, Fr Muller Medical College, Mangaluru; Dr Clinton Castelino, assistant professor, department of psychiatry, Fr Muller Medical College Hospital, Mangaluru; Dr Rahul M Rao, associate professor, department of psychiatry, Fr Muller Medical College, Mangaluru; and Dr Rajesh M, assistant professor, department of psychiatry, Yenepoya Medical College, Mangaluru.
The resource persons focused on the increasing prevalence of vaping among adolescents and explained how it is often mistakenly perceived as a harmless habit. Through evidence-based presentations, real-life experiences, and interactive discussions, they highlighted the harmful effects of nicotine addiction, the physical and psychological consequences of vaping, and its potential to act as a gateway to other forms of substance abuse. Students were encouraged to recognise the influence of peer pressure, make informed choices, and seek help whenever required.
To reinforce the message of a drug-free lifestyle, poster making and article writing competitions were organised, providing students with an opportunity to creatively express their understanding of substance abuse prevention. In addition, awareness sessions were conducted by the counsellors of the college, who engaged students in meaningful discussions on the dangers of drug abuse, the risks associated with vaping, and the importance of making healthy, informed life choices.
All students solemnly took the Anti-Drug Pledge, reaffirming their commitment to stay away from drugs, promote healthy living, and spread awareness among their peers and the community.
Drug Awareness Week proved to be a meaningful and impactful initiative, equipping students with accurate information on substance abuse prevention and empowering them to make responsible decisions. The programme successfully fostered greater awareness about the dangers of vaping and reinforced the college's commitment to nurturing informed, healthy, and socially responsible young adults.