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: The Oxford Pakistan Programme (OPP) has proudly announced scholarships exclusively tailored for students hailing from the Balochistan.
Representing the first of its kind, this initiative stands as a beacon of hope, promising to carve new pathways of opportunity for deserving individuals in the region.
The monumental announcement was made by none other than the esteemed Chief Minister of Balochistan, Sarfraz Bugti, amidst the prestigious ambiance of Oxford University’s annual May Dinner & Fundraiser, hosted at the illustrious Lady Margaret Hall.
At the heart of this initiative lies a resolute dedication to harnessing the potential of Balochistan’s youth by offering them the chance to pursue STEM subjects at one of the world’s most revered academic institutions.
Chief Minister Bugti underscored the profound significance of this scholarship program, affirming its alignment with the government’s unwavering commitment to catalyze educational transformation and empower the youth of Balochistan, the largest province in Pakistan by land area. Through this endeavor, the stage is set for nurturing a cadre of future leaders who will undoubtedly play pivotal roles in shaping the destiny of their homeland.
Since its inception three years ago, the Oxford Pakistan Programme has emerged as the premier academic platform dedicated to Pakistan outside its borders. The announcement of scholarships for Balochistan students further solidifies its standing as a beacon of academic excellence and inclusivity.
The event witnessed the distinguished presence of over a hundred esteemed guests, including Nobel Laureate Malala Yousafzai, luminaries such as Aamir Ibrahim and Mohammed Khaishgi, and other notable figures.
Prior to the sumptuous dinner, a strategic advisory board meeting convened to deliberate on the future trajectory of the OPP, with a keen focus on enhancing scholarship accessibility and post-study employment prospects for scholars.
In a demonstration of unwavering support for the program’s noble cause, a generous donation of one hundred thousand pounds was pledged to establish an endowment fund, further fortifying the program’s sustainability and reach.
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