Pakistan is currently counted among the most significant nations in the world in terms of its youth population. Nearly two-thirds of the country's population consists of young people, who represent the most valuable asset of any nation. These are the same youth who will become tomorrow's scientists, doctors, engineers, teachers, researchers, policymakers, and national leaders. However, it is with great regret that we acknowledge that today our younger generation is falling prey to a danger that is not only affecting their future but also the future of the entire society and the state. This danger is the increasing use of drugs in educational institutions.

Recently, I had the opportunity to attend a seminar at Shifa Tameer-e-Millat University, Islamabad, on the topic "Drug Addiction among Students and in Educational Institutions: A National Emergency." On this occasion, experts, teachers, students, and individuals from various walks of life discussed different aspects of this issue. From this discourse, one reality became evident: the drug problem is no longer confined to a few isolated incidents but has assumed the shape of a national crisis. According to the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), _6.7 million people_ in Pakistan use drugs, while _860,000 individuals_ are addicted to heroin.

Universities serve as the academic, intellectual, and research centers of any nation. These are the institutions from which a nation draws its intellectual guidance and where its future leadership is nurtured. Unfortunately, today some universities are being identified not by their knowledge, research, and character-building but by negative associations. In many cities, it has become a common perception among students that if one needs drugs, they can be accessed through specific hostels, cafeterias, or other locations in certain universities. This situation is not only regrettable but also a moment of profound reflection for the entire nation. _During 2025, 385 cases_ of drug use were reported across _58 higher educational institutions_ throughout Pakistan, of which _143 cases_ were reported from nine universities in the federal capital, including _10 female students_.

As a student activist, during visits to various universities and meetings with students, I have repeatedly felt the gravity of this issue. Numerous students have pointed out that access to drugs has become far easier than before. Newly enrolled students are initially lured toward drugs in the name of friendship, recreation, modern lifestyle, relief from mental stress, or mere curiosity. Initially, this seems like a minor experiment, but gradually it transforms into a dangerous addiction that destroys a talented student's academic career, mental health, and social life. Research indicates that the first drug experience often occurs among friends at _the age of 14_, and this tendency increases under stressful situations.

Throughout this process, the role of certain irresponsible senior students also emerges. According to information received from various universities and student observations, certain elements play a role in introducing new students to drugs and incorporating them into specific circles. Although these elements do not represent the majority of students, their activities jeopardize the future of hundreds of young people.

The reality is that the drug problem is not merely an individual issue; behind it operates an organized mafia. This mafia considers the younger generation an easy target and plays with their lives for financial gain. The opinions of numerous students and teachers suggest that drug trafficking networks at certain locations have become so strong that taking action against them is no longer easy. Sometimes actions are taken, but reaching the original networks proves difficult, as a result of which the problem remains unaddressed. The Anti-Narcotics Force (ANF) has seized _1,453 kilograms_ of drugs for educational institutions and arrested _over 300 suspects_, yet organized networks remain active.

Another concerning aspect of this situation is the weakness of the monitoring system, lack of accountability, and the alleged patronage of certain influential elements. When law enforcement is weak, accountability is ineffective, and drug-selling elements operate freely around educational institutions, such groups become emboldened. This is precisely why the solution to this problem lies not in temporary actions but in a sustained and comprehensive strategy. The Islamabad High Court has ordered the Anti-Narcotics Force and police to be included in a monitoring committee for the prevention of drugs in educational institutions.

The spread of drugs actually indicates other flaws in our educational system. Rising fees, shortage of hostels, mental stress, academic burden, fears of unemployment, lack of positive activities, and the absence of an effective system for resolving student issues give rise to frustration among young people. When young people feel alone and insecure, the chances of negative tendencies flourishing increase. According to experts, _academic pressure and peer pressure_ are among the primary reasons for drug use.

Drugs do not just affect an individual; they harm the entire family, educational environment, and society. The ruin of one student is tantamount to the destruction of a family's dreams, the wastage of national capital, and the deprivation of future leadership. This is precisely why this issue needs to be viewed not merely as an administrative or disciplinary matter but as a _national emergency_.

A comprehensive strategy is indispensable to tackle this crisis. Effective anti-drug policies must be implemented in educational institutions, monitoring systems in campuses and hostels must be strengthened, counseling centers should be established, mental health support centers should be created, and strict and indiscriminate action must be taken against those involved in drug trafficking. The Higher Education Commission (HEC) has established "Anti-Drug and Tobacco Committees" in _245 public and private universities_ to ensure the enforcement of anti-drug laws and awareness campaigns. Parents, teachers, educational administration, law enforcement agencies, and students—all must play their respective roles.

Similarly, it is essential to promote positive student activities, dialogue, and opportunities for student representation in educational institutions. Past experience shows that when students have responsible and organized platforms, the educational environment becomes more active, safe, and accountable. In this context, the _revival of student unions_ should also be seriously considered so that students can play a positive and constructive role in resolving their institutions' issues, academic standards, campus environment, and serious challenges like drugs. Organized student representation cannot only promote accountability and transparency in educational institutions but can also serve as a means to channel the energies of young people in a positive direction.

The future of Pakistan depends on its younger generation. If we do not seriously address this issue today, its consequences will be far more dangerous in the years to come. The need of the hour is to take effective, sustained, and non-political measures at the national level against drugs so that our universities can once again become centers of knowledge, research, character-building, and national guidance, rather than being identified by drugs and other social evils.

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_Waseem Haider_
PhD Scholar, University of Peshawar
Central President, IJT Pakistan
(Former Faculty Member, University of Peshawar)