IUST Encourages Youth Leadership Through Anti-Drug Awareness and Student Excellence Awards
Awantipora, Jammu & Kashmir: Reinforcing the message that young people are central to building a healthier and stronger nation, the Islamic University of Science and Technology (IUST) organized a special felicitation ceremony recognizing students who demonstrated excellence in both social awareness and creative achievement.
The university honoured winners of a spot essay competition on the theme “My Role in a Drug-Free Society and Solutions to Drug Addiction,” conducted as part of the nationwide Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan. The competition encouraged students to reflect on the growing challenge of substance abuse and to propose practical ideas for creating safer, healthier communities.
Through their essays, participants explored the importance of prevention, education, family support, community participation, and responsible decision-making in addressing drug addiction. The event aimed to inspire students to view themselves not only as learners but also as active contributors to social change.
University officials emphasized that educational institutions have an important responsibility in promoting awareness about the harmful effects of substance abuse while nurturing leadership qualities among young people. By engaging students in discussions on social issues, universities can help build informed citizens capable of contributing to national development.
The programme reflected the broader objectives of the Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan, which seeks to reduce drug abuse through awareness campaigns, community engagement, education, counselling, and rehabilitation initiatives. Student participation is considered a key element of the campaign, as young people can play an influential role in encouraging healthy lifestyles among their peers.
Alongside the anti-drug awareness initiative, IUST also celebrated students who performed exceptionally well at Spectrum-2026, an event organized by National Institute of Fashion Technology. Their achievements showcased creativity, innovation, and talent across design and related disciplines, highlighting the diverse accomplishments of the university’s student community.
Recognizing excellence in both academic and extracurricular activities reflects the institution’s commitment to holistic education. By honouring students engaged in social responsibility as well as creative pursuits, the university seeks to encourage balanced personal growth and civic engagement.
Faculty members noted that empowering students to address societal challenges while supporting their artistic and professional aspirations helps cultivate responsible future leaders. Initiatives such as essay competitions, cultural events, and innovation platforms provide valuable opportunities for students to develop confidence, communication skills, and a sense of public responsibility.
The felicitation ceremony concluded with a renewed call for continued collaboration among educational institutions, government agencies, families, and communities in promoting drug-free environments and empowering youth to become ambassadors of positive change.
By combining awareness initiatives with recognition of academic and creative excellence, IUST reaffirmed its commitment to nurturing socially responsible graduates who are prepared to contribute meaningfully to both their communities and the nation’s future.