SPARC kicks off month-long anti-tobacco drive

ISLAMABAD: The Society for the Protection of the Rights of the Child (SPARC) has initiated a month-long campaign aimed at raising awareness about the hazards of tobacco consumption in Pakistan.

Under the banner of "Youth Against Tobacco: Healthier Generation – Thriving Economy," the campaign was launched at a ceremony held at the Punjab Group of Colleges.

Under the campaign, SPARC, with the backing of the Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids (CTFK), will involve youth in anti-tobacco initiatives spanning the entire month.

Young participants will participate in different activities, including the formation of clubs, engagement in speech competitions, poster designing, execution of social media campaigns, and crafting video messages, all leading up to the grand observance of World No-Tobacco Day on May 31, 2024.

Dr. Maheen Malik, Regional Director South Asia at Campaign for Tobacco Free Kids, stressed the need for empowering youth for a healthier future, citing its correlation with economic prosperity. "Empowering our youth for a healthier future is not just a moral imperative; it’s an economic necessity," she says.

Mahnoor, Member of Anti-Tobacco Youth Club, termed tobacco consumption a serious threat to the youth, saying, "Tobacco not only steals our health but also our future. We must unite to protect our youth from this menace."

Ch. Muhammad Akram, Director of Punjab Group of Colleges, Rawalpindi/Islamabad, emphasized the role of educational institutions in spearheading the battle against tobacco consumption, fostering healthier habits, and nurturing brighter futures for students.

Dr. Khalil Ahmad Dogar, Program Manager at SPARC, reaffirmed the organization’s commitment to curbing tobacco use, adding, "At SPARC, we are steadfast in our mission to safeguard the rights of children and ensure a tobacco-free environment for future generations."