Department of Biochemistry Organizes an Awareness Seminar on the Dangers of Drugs and Their Impact on Individual and Community Health

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As part of Al-Mustaqbal University's ongoing efforts to promote health awareness and social responsibility, and to strengthen the role of academic institutions in addressing issues that affect human health and community well-being, the Department of Biochemistry at the College of Science organized an awareness seminar entitled “Drugs: Their Dangers and Impact on Society.” The seminar was delivered by Asst. Prof. Dr. Aseel Amer Hadi on Wednesday, 21 October 2026, at 10:00 AM in Hall (004) of the Humanities Building. The event targeted fourth-year students. The seminar addressed drug use as a significant public health and social concern that requires continuous attention and evidence-based awareness, given the harmful consequences that substance use can have on various aspects of human life. These consequences may affect physical and psychological health, cognitive and behavioural functions, and family and social relationships. The seminar aimed to familiarize students with these risks, strengthen their understanding of the importance of preventing substance use and addiction, and highlight the role of health awareness in reducing the spread of drug-related problems and their consequences for individuals and society. The seminar also highlighted the health effects associated with drug use, including potential disruptions to normal bodily functions and adverse effects on the nervous system and cognitive abilities. In addition, it addressed the possible consequences for mental health and behavioural stability. Discussing these issues from a scientific and health-oriented perspective helps students develop a clearer understanding of the dangers of drugs and recognize that substance use is not merely an individual behavioural concern, but a broader public health and social issue that requires coordinated efforts among educational, healthcare, family, and community awareness institutions. Furthermore, the seminar examined the social consequences of drug use, including potential family difficulties, strained social relationships, and declining academic or professional performance. It also highlighted the health, social, and economic burdens that drug-related disorders may impose on individuals, families, and communities. In this context, the importance of creating a supportive environment for prevention was emphasized, particularly through providing accurate information, encouraging informed discussions, and promoting healthy behaviours that protect human well-being and safety. The seminar placed particular emphasis on the role of universities in raising awareness among young people through educational activities and awareness programmes that help students understand contemporary health and social challenges, their consequences, and the available approaches to prevention. Such initiatives form an important part of the broader mission of higher education, which extends beyond specialized academic instruction to include the development of personal responsibility, the promotion of healthy lifestyles, and the preparation of students to make positive contributions to their communities. The organization of this seminar supports Sustainable Development Goal 3: Good Health and Well-being, which aims to ensure healthy lives and promote well-being for all at all ages. More specifically, the seminar aligns with Target 3.5, which calls for strengthening the prevention and treatment of substance abuse, including narcotic drug abuse and harmful alcohol use. From this perspective, raising awareness about the dangers of drugs represents an important contribution to public health protection, preventive health education, and the reduction of harms that may undermine individual and community well-being. The activity also contributes to Sustainable Development Goal 4: Quality Education, by strengthening students' health knowledge and supporting an educational environment that encourages awareness of important social issues. Furthermore, it is relevant to Sustainable Development Goal 16: Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions, through its emphasis on social responsibility and the promotion of safer and more stable communities. These connections demonstrate the importance of integrating health awareness, university education, and community engagement in advancing sustainable development. This initiative reflects the Department of Biochemistry's commitment at the College of Science, Al-Mustaqbal University, to strengthening its scientific and educational role and expanding its contribution to public health awareness. It also highlights the value of university activities in supporting preventive approaches and encouraging students to acquire the knowledge necessary to make informed health-related decisions. Through such initiatives, the university continues to support efforts to protect individuals, families, and communities while promoting a healthier, safer, and more sustainable society.