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.LAHORE: The Provincial Education Department of Punjab has issued an urgent advisory for both private and government schools in the wake of increasing heat intensity across the province.
The advisory stresses the importance of creating safe and comfortable environments for students as the heatwave continues to intensify.
The advisory mandates that all educational institutions take proactive measures to ensure students’ health and well-being during extreme heat conditions.
Schools are required to provide clean and cold drinking water in all classrooms, with an emphasis on ensuring students drink between eight to ten glasses of water daily to stay hydrated.
“Maintaining access to clean, cool water is essential, especially with the soaring temperatures. We urge schools to closely monitor water supplies and ensure hydration throughout the day,” said a spokesperson from the School Education Department.
Additionally, the advisory underscores the importance of holding classes in well-ventilated rooms. Schools are instructed to utilize electronic devices, such as air coolers and fans, to enhance airflow and maintain a conducive learning environment.
To further safeguard the health of students and teachers, the department has advised schools to prevent students from going outside during the peak hours of extreme heat. “Outdoor activities should be minimized, and students must be kept indoors during high-heat periods,” the spokesperson added.
Recognising the risks associated with heat-related illnesses, the advisory also calls for the awareness and training of both students and teachers regarding the symptoms of heatstroke and the necessary precautionary measures. Schools are also instructed to equip their premises with first aid kits and ensure emergency training for school staff to assist those affected by heat-related issues.
“Heatstroke can be life-threatening if not promptly treated. It’s essential that teachers and school staff are well-equipped to handle such emergencies and provide immediate care when needed,” the spokesperson emphasized.
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