The government is taking multi-faceted initiatives in various fields including education, sports, culture and employment to keep youth away from drug and internet addiction, said Bangladesh University Grants Commission (UGC) member Professor Dr. Abdullah-al-Mamun.

He said that drug addicts should be compassionate and arrangements should be made to bring them back to the mainstream of society. However, people involved in drug trade and drug godfathers should be dealt with socially and politically. In this regard, the government should play an effective role.

Professor Mamun said these things in his inaugural speech at a workshop titled ‘Drug and Internet Addiction, Confusion in Career Selection: The Path to Solution’ at the International Mother Language Institute on Tuesday (August 11). The workshop was jointly organized by the Bangladesh Anti-Drug Federation and the Narcotics Control Department.

Professor Mamun said, it is not possible to keep the youth away from addiction by just creating awareness. A joyful and positive environment must be created for them. For this purpose, the 'Education with Happiness' program is being adopted in the curriculum. Along with this, opportunities are being created to involve them in sports and cultural activities.

He also mentioned the 'New Bud' program to develop the talent and talent of children and adolescents. He believes that organizing various sports competitions including the Prime Minister's Gold Cup will be helpful in keeping the youth involved in positive activities. This will create an environment to keep them away from drug and internet addiction.

This UGC member also emphasized on making the youth self-reliant. He said, the government is working with the target of creating one crore jobs in the next five years or a specific period to eliminate youth unemployment. There are plans to create this employment through increasing domestic and foreign investment, expansion of the public and private sectors, and technical training.

Professor Mamun also emphasized on improving the language and professional skills of the youth for employment abroad. In addition, information technology and technical training, assistance in creating entrepreneurs and opportunities for self-employment are being increased. He urged the youth to make full use of these opportunities. Representatives of various government and private organizations, concerned individuals and youth participated in the workshop.