Lucknow: In a significant step towards strengthening the fight against substance abuse, higher education institutions across Uttar Pradesh are set to introduce a two-credit value-added course on drug de-addiction.Acting on directions from the Centre, UP’s higher education department has instructed all universities, public and private; and colleges to implement the course with immediate effect, integrating awareness on substance abuse into the academic framework.The course titled, ‘Substance use disorder’, is aimed to educate students about the harmful effects of drug consumption while encouraging their active participation in anti-drug initiatives. Officials said the move is aligned with the broader national strategy to reduce drug demand and promote a ‘Nasha Mukt Bharat’. The decision comes after a meeting of Narco Coordination Centre (NCORD), chaired by Union home minister, emphasized increasing the involvement of educational institutions in combating drug abuse, leading to the issuance of these directives.In addition to classroom learning, institutions will introduce credit-based internship opportunities. Students, particularly from social work and psychology backgrounds, will be placed in de-addiction centres, medical college addiction treatment facilities, NGOs and drug demand reduction cells. These internships are expected to provide hands-on experience and enable students to contribute directly to anti-drug campaigns, officials said.The department has also asked higher learning institutions (HEIs) that anti-drug awareness sessions be included in the week-long induction programme for new entrants in the upcoming academic session. To strengthen capacity building, platforms such as SWAYAM, the Madan Mohan Malaviya National Mission on Teachers and Teaching and the Chetana Lecture Series will be used to train teachers, counsellors, and students, the order stated.Universities have been asked to actively promote awareness through workshops, rallies, debates, sports and cultural programmes. They are also required to strengthen counselling services, publicize helplines and ensure a drug-free campus environment. HEIs have been asked to submit regular reports on implementation, as authorities aim to translate policy into effective grassroots action and safeguard youth from substance abuse.
