A seminar was held in Cumilla on Wednesday to raise awareness among students about preventing drug abuse and AIDS.
The Cumilla district unit of Bashundhara Shuvosangho organised the seminar at the auditorium of the new campus of Cumilla Commerce College.
Principal of Cumilla Commerce College and President of the Cumilla chapter of Bangladesh Poribesh Andolon (BAPA) Humayun Kabir Masud attended the event as the chief guest.
Bashundhara Shuvosangho Cumilla district unit President Zahid Patwari presided over the programme.
Among others, Shuvosangho adviser and Cumilla correspondent of Bangladesh Pratidin Mahiuddin Molla, Cumilla correspondent of News24 HM Mahiuddin and Cumilla correspondent of Alokito Shokal Motaleb Hossain addressed the seminar.
Speakers said drug abuse has become one of the major problems in society. They said a section of young people is becoming involved with drugs due to temptation, frustration and lack of awareness, causing not only physical and mental harm to individuals but also damaging families, disrupting education and careers, and increasing social crimes.
The seminar also featured discussions on AIDS. Speakers said although AIDS is a serious health concern, its risks can be reduced through awareness, accurate information and preventive measures.
They called for a humane attitude towards people living with AIDS and urged people not to discriminate against them.
They said misinformation and social stigma often create fear about AIDS, making it important to spread proper health knowledge among young people.
Speakers further said that regular participation in sports and cultural practices plays an important role in building students' confidence, leadership skills and positive thinking.
They said drug abuse and social degradation can be prevented if families, teachers, students and social organisations work together.
Bd-pratidin English/TR
