Islamabad: Rising tobacco and nicotine use among Pakistan’s youth, especially around educational institutions, emerged as the central concern at a national review session on tobacco control held by the Aurat Foundation in Islamabad.
Participants from Parliament, government departments, health organizations, and civil society warned that easy availability of cigarettes, vapes, nicotine pouches, and flavored tobacco near schools is creating a growing public health threat. The discussion also pointed to a noticeable increase in tobacco use among women, indicating a shifting trend.
The session called for stronger legislation, faster policy action, and strict enforcement to counter the rapid spread of emerging nicotine products. Speakers emphasized that existing laws remain poorly implemented due to procedural delays, weak monitoring, and limited coordination between federal and provincial bodies.
The need for clear parental awareness, community engagement, and better recognition of new nicotine products was highlighted as an essential part of early prevention. Officials noted that families and schools often remain unaware of modern products marketed to young people.
Technical briefings identified major enforcement gaps and policy loopholes that allow the tobacco industry to expand its reach. Participants noted that companies are increasingly using social media trends, entertainment content, and youth-focused marketing to promote vaping in urban areas.
Government representatives reaffirmed ongoing federal efforts to implement the Prohibition of Smoking and Protection of Non-Smokers Health Ordinance 2002 and to tighten regulations where required. Provincial representatives also announced plans to introduce new resolutions to strengthen tobacco control.
Education sector officials raised alarms over the rise of nicotine products around private institutions and called for tougher regulatory checks. Regulatory authorities stressed the need for a broader social movement to counter tobacco use nationwide.
Closing the event, the Aurat Foundation reiterated its commitment to evidence-based advocacy, cross-sector collaboration, and long-term public awareness initiatives aimed at building a healthier, tobacco-free society.ISLAMABAD: Students of the Japanese language at the National University of Modern Languages (NUML) got a taste of Japan far beyond classroom lessons as the Embassy of Japan hosted an immersive cultural exchange event on Wednesday.
The program, designed to deepen cultural understanding and build people-to-people ties, featured interactive sessions on Japanese attire, calligraphy, and dining customs—giving young Pakistanis a hands-on introduction to traditions they usually only read about.
Welcoming the participants, Ms. Ura Mamiko, Deputy Head of Public Affairs at the Embassy of Japan, praised their enthusiasm for learning the Japanese language and culture, calling it “a bridge that brings the people of Japan and Pakistan closer together.”
The event opened with a lively session on traditional attire, where students learned about the iconic kimono. A lucky draw allowed three students to take part in a live demonstration on how to wear a yukata—a lighter, summer version of the kimono.
The second session introduced students to the centuries-old art of calligraphy (shodō). With brushes and ink in hand, participants practiced writing kanji characters, many describing the experience as both challenging and inspiring.
The final session focused on Japanese dining etiquette, particularly the use of chopsticks. A playful challenge tasked students with transferring beans from one plate to another. The top four advanced to a mini-tournament, and the two winners received commemorative gifts from the Embassy.
In her closing remarks, Ms. Mamiko said the event reflects the Embassy’s commitment to youth-focused initiatives that strengthen bilateral friendship. “These exchanges,” she noted, “are about building enduring bridges between our young generations.”
Participants expressed gratitude for the opportunity, with many calling the event an unforgettable experience that brought Japanese culture to life.
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