Media Release
Mangaluru. Jul 21: The Internal Quality Assurance Cell (IQAC), Tobacco/ Substance Abuse Control Committee, The Centre for Extension Services (CES) and the Post Graduate Department of Criminology and Forensic Science (CFS), School of Social Work, Roshni Nilaya, Mangaluru, in association with Mangaluru South Police Station, Pandeshwar, Mangaluru had organized an outreach programme on the theme Shielding Futures: An Anti-drug Awareness on July 19 at 2 pm in Government High School, Attavar, Mangaluru.
The programme me began with a welcome dance by Aparna Shetty, a second-year MSc Criminology and Forensic Science student followed by a formal welcome note delivered by Vignesh R Nayak, a second-year MSc CFS student cum student coordinator of the programme. The Chief Guest, Gururaj, Police Inspector of Mangaluru South Police Station, Pandeshwar, inaugurated the event by lighting the lamp, accompanied by B Raghavendra Rao, headmaster of Government High School, Attavar, Niketh P S, assistant professor, Post Graduate Department of CFS and programme coordinator.
Niketh P S gave an introductory note stressing about the significance of the international day against Drug abuse and illicit trafficking and the role of youth in spreading awareness about drug abuse. He also said the main purpose of the programme was to increase public awareness about drugs, risk factors, preventive measures, and available resources for assistance.
The chief guest, Gururaj, highlighted the dangers of drug abuse to high school students, emphasizing its harmful effects on health and future prospects. He encouraged students to resist peer pressure, seek support, and make positive choices, emphasizing community support and urging them to focus on their goals and dreams. He also shared his experience in drug abuse cases in the form of stories and encouraged to create a drug-free community.
B Raghavendra Rao, presiding officer of the programme expressed his gratitude for the programme being conducted at their school and also highlighted the severe consequences of drug abuse on individuals and society, encouraging students to make smart choices.
Further, students of Post Graduate Department of CFS presented a skit depicting various circumstances influencing drug consumption, such as family pressure, social discrimination, and lack of parental care. Preventive measures were explained to the students along with a video on the topic. An interactive activity coordinated by Shravya S Rai, a second-year MSc CFS student, created an enthusiastic environment for the students.
The students and faculties of the school gave positive feedback about the programme and appreciated the initiative taken by the organizers for successfully conducting the event. Altogether, 65 students and faculties were present during the event. The programme was planned under the guidance of Dr Saritha D’Souza, Head of the Department cum IQAC coordinator, Post Graduate Department of Criminology and Forensic Science, School of Social Work, Mangaluru. Vedhaashini S Gowda, president of Forensic Forum, MSc CFS, proposed a vote of thanks. Hevin Ujwal Vas, student coordinator of the Tobacco/Substance Abuse Control Committee, MSc CFS, compered the event. The programme concluded at 4:00 pm with a group picture. Adheena, media coordinator and a second-year MSc CFS student, compiled the report.