Islamabad: The Vice Chancellors’ Review Committee convened for its second meeting to discuss revisions to the Higher Education Commission’s (HEC) 2021 policy on drug and tobacco abuse in higher education institutions. The meeting, held at the HEC Secretariat, focused on refining the policy to better address prevention and enforcement.
According to Higher Education Commission of Pakistan, the meeting included vice chancellors from various regions and sectors, along with representatives from law enforcement agencies. Engr. Saleem Ullah Sohoo, Director General of Research & Analysis Activities at HEC, presented insights on the current policy’s implementation and its collaboration with the Anti-Narcotics Force (ANF), highlighting ongoing awareness and monitoring efforts.
Dr. Moeed Waseem Yusuf, Vice Chancellor of Beaconhouse National University and Committee Convener, introduced a revised draft policy reflecting feedback from the initial meeting. The committee engaged in comprehensive discussions and reached consensus on key recommendations to enhance the policy framework, particularly in areas of prevention, awareness, counselling, and rehabilitation.
Committee members agreed to incorporate additional suggestions made during the meeting into the revised policy draft. The aim is to develop a cohesive national policy framework that accounts for regional and institutional differences while focusing on prevention, monitoring, and effective enforcement.
The Higher Education Commission reiterated its commitment to fostering safe and drug-free environments within Pakistan’s higher education institutions, emphasizing the importance of robust preventive measures and inter-agency collaboration.