Shakeel Azad
Pulwama, April 22: In a significant step toward addressing the growing scourge of drug abuse and fostering cultural consciousness among youth, Government Women’s Degree College Pulwama today hosted a comprehensive, multi-dimensional program. The event was jointly organized by the A.R. Azad Memorial Foundation Jammu & Kashmir, the Jammu & Kashmir Cultural Academy, the Information Centre Pulwama, and the college itself. The program brought together students, scholars, poets, and social activists on a common platform to deliberate on the social and psychological consequences of substance abuse and to explore effective preventive strategies.
Renowned poet, critic, and scholar Professor Shad Ramzan attended the event as the Chief Guest. The presidium included notable literary and social figures such as Syed Shawkat Ghayoor, Muntizar Mohi-ud-Din, acclaimed writer Mohi-ud-Din Farooq Trali, and the college Principal, Professor Sami Jan. In their addresses, speakers described drug abuse as one of the most grave and widespread social issues of contemporary times. They asserted that it not only deteriorates the physical and mental health of the youth but also systematically weakens the foundational fabric of society.
Experts emphasized that tackling drug abuse requires far more than government intervention alone. “It demands a collective effort from every segment of society — educational institutions, parents, civil society, and religious and cultural organizations,” said Professor Shad Ramzan. The speakers highlighted that educational institutions are not merely centers of academic learning but are vital platforms for character building and moral development. They called for instilling positive thinking, self-confidence, and a sense of social responsibility among students to shield them from negative influences. Principal Professor Sami Jan reaffirmed the college’s commitment to organizing such awareness initiatives. “Our students are our future. It is our duty to equip them with awareness and resilience,” she said.
Students presented thought-provoking skits and cultural performances that powerfully conveyed the harmful effects of drug abuse and ways to prevent it. These creative presentations were widely applauded by the audience and were regarded as an effective medium for inspiring positive behavioral change.
The event concluded with a dignified and vibrant Mushaira (poetic symposium), presided over by distinguished poet Mohammad Subhan Shoqeen. Majeed Masroor and Muntizar Mohi-ud-Din also shared the dais. Poets used their verses to highlight various social issues, particularly focusing on raising awareness against drug abuse, moral decline, and social responsibility. Poets who enriched the Mushaira included Feroz Ahmad, Riyaz Ahmad, Dawood-ur-Rehman, Shakeel Azad, Mohammad Subhan Shoqeen, Sanaullah Sanober, Sagar Nazir, Bashir Shaheen, Bashir Ahmad Dangroo, Muntizar Mohi-ud-Din, Ayoub Javed, Syed Shawkat Ghayoor, Majeed Masroor, Ghulam Mohammad Nowsooze, Sameer Thakur Rathar, and Sameer.
The proceedings were skillfully conducted by Ayoub Javed and Ghulam Mohammad Nowsooze. Dr. Shabnam Rafiq, representing the Jammu & Kashmir Cultural Academy, formally welcomed the guests. Shakeel Azad, Chairman of the A.R. Azad Memorial Foundation, expressed gratitude in his concluding remarks and reaffirmed the commitment to continue organizing such meaningful programs. “Our goal is to guide the younger generation toward a safe, aware, and positive future,” Mr. Azad said. The program was widely hailed as a successful initiative — raising awareness against drug abuse while simultaneously promoting cultural consciousness and encouraging youth toward constructive and positive engagement.
