Drug Availability in Schools and Colleges – A Need for Policy Reform in Pakistan

Abstract

The weak law enforcement, social pressures, and no gaps in institutional oversight have now turned schools and colleges into places that were once safe spaces to learn but now exposed to illicit substances. The alarming trend is to students' health, performance, and social stability. A recent high profile case, Mustafa AMIR case, has enlightened us about very deep drug networks involved in educational institutions. Policy interventions such as stricter regulations, enhancing surveillance, awareness campaigns should be conducted immediately and there must be better coordination amongst law enforcing agencies, educators and parents. This rising menace must be curbed with immediate reforms to save the future generations of Pakistan.