DHAKA :
On the occasion of the International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit
Trafficking 2026, the Bangladesh Chapter of the International Society of
Substance Use Professionals (ISSUP), in collaboration with Dhaka Ahsania
Mission (DAM), organized a colorful youth march and awareness campaign today.
The youth
march began at 8:00 a.m. from the Star Gate of Ramna Park (in front of the
Matsya Bhaban Gate) and concluded at the gate of Curzon Hall, University of
Dhaka, passing through Osman Gani Road. More than one hundred young people
participated in the event. Participants carried placards and wore campaign
T-shirts and caps displaying messages promoting a drug-free society, protecting
young people from the risks of substance use, and expanding evidence-based drug
prevention initiatives.
During
the youth march, participants called for increased public awareness about the
harmful effects of drugs and emphasized the importance of ensuring a healthy
and safe future for young people. They highlighted the need for coordinated
efforts among families, educational institutions, communities, and the
government in preventing drug use.
In
addition, the ISSUP Bangladesh Chapter participated in the national anti-drug
rally and human chain organized by the government. Approximately 200
professionals, healthcare providers, youth representatives, and people from
various sectors took part in these activities.
Following
the youth march, youth representatives participated in a discussion meeting
organized by the Department of Narcotics Control (DNC) under the Ministry of
Home Affairs, held at Osmani Memorial Auditorium in Dhaka. Speakers at the
event underscored the importance of scientific and evidence-based drug
prevention programmes and identified youth engagement as one of the key driving
forces for building a drug-free society.
To raise
public awareness on drug prevention, ISSUP Bangladesh Chapter and Dhaka Ahsania
Mission prepared and distributed various information, education, and
communication (IEC) materials, including T-shirts, caps, and educational
leaflets marking the observance of the day.
The
organizers expressed hope that such initiatives would enhance anti-drug
awareness among young people and play a significant role in building a healthy,
safe, and drug-free Bangladesh.
