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 National Vocational and Technical Training Commission (NAVTTC) has officially launched “TVETOMETER”, a groundbreaking initiative aimed at promoting and enhancing technical and vocational education and training (TVET) in Pakistan.
Speaking at aceremony held at the NAVTTC Headquarters, Chairperson NAVTTC, Gulmena Bilal, briefed the media about this initiative.
She stated that this comprehensive database would provide a scientific and empirical analysis of Pakistan’s TVET sector.
TVETOMETER is a revolutionary tool that will offer detailed insights into technical and vocational institutes, teacher demographics, and key trends across all provinces, Azad Jammu & Kashmir, Gilgit-Baltistan, and Islamabad Capital Territory.
This system will highlight the existing structure and gaps in the TVET sector, helping policymakers in improving inclusivity and quality in technical education.
She emphasized that this initiative will play a crucial role in raising skill standards, equipping youth with modern competencies, and contributing to economic development.
The data-driven approach of TVETOMETER will increase transparency in the TVET sector and assist policymakers in making informed decisions.
With the launch of TVETOMETER, NAVTTC reaffirmed its commitment to advancing technical and vocational education in Pakistan, ensuring innovative and effective measures to empower the country’s youth with high-quality skills training.
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