University of Karachi bans tobacco and drug use

KARACHI: The University of Karachi has banned the use and sale of tobacco products, along with drugs, on its premises.

According to a notification issued by the university, “smoking, use, possession, consumption, sale or distribution of drugs and tobacco products is strictly prohibited within the university premises, including offices, classrooms, laboratories, cafeterias, hostels and other common areas.”

The Higher Education Commission (HEC) adopted the Policy on Drug and Tobacco Abuse in Higher Education Institutions in 2021 to ensure that universities and colleges remain drug-free and smoke-free environments. Under this policy, the universities are required to maintain smoke-free environments and enforce anti-tobacco laws on campus. Every Higher Education Institution (HEI) is required to establish an Anti-Drug and Tobacco Committee, which is responsible for prevention, awareness, monitoring, implementation, and reporting.

The university has also announced fines for violating the ban on tobacco and drug use. “Students, faculty members, non-teaching staff or drug related offences shall face disciplinary actions according to the university rules and HEC policy on Drug and Tobacco Abuse.” The notification said visitors smoking on campus will be fined Rs1000, while shop owners/vendors involved in unlawful tobacco sales will be fined Rs5000. “Drug-related offences shall be reported to relevant law-enforcement authorities.”