This morning, Saturday, February 10, 2024, at the University of Continuous Training, Kharouba Center, Professor Yahia Jaafari presided over the official opening of the awareness-raising activities on drug prevention and addiction in the university environment, in coordination with the Algerian Red Crescent, in the presence of the director of Kharouba Center. The event witnessed the attendance of many stakeholders, including the Republic’s mediator, representatives from both chambers of parliament, local elected officials, and representatives from the National Gendarmerie, National Security, and Civil Protection, as well as a group of professors, doctors, and sociologists, including Professor Abidat Abdelkrim, an international expert and advisor in community prevention, Ms. Amine Harrach, a social and psychological researcher specializing in social ills, Dr. Bahij Yasmina, the national coordinator for community health at the Algerian Red Crescent, and Dr. Karamchiya Abdelhak, a specialist in mental health, psychology, and addiction treatment, along with Dr. Nour Eddine Abu Hamza, the chairman of the Scientific Council for Shari´a and a member of the National Fatwa Committee.

    This educational day witnessed the recitation of verses from the Holy Quran, followed by the national anthem. Valuable scientific interventions were presented, starting with a welcoming speech by Dr. Salma Sultani, the director of Kharouba Center, who welcomed the distinguished attendees and guests of the awareness days. These activities included exhibitions by associations, clubs, and blood donation campaigns. Then, the microphone was given to Professor Yahia Jaafari, the university’s director, who delivered an opening speech regarding the awareness day. He emphasized the necessity of activating the role of families in leadership and guidance, as well as the role of the social environment in social upbringing. Additionally, he stressed the university’s role in educating and raising awareness among individuals in society about the increasing dangers of drug abuse, which undermine its security and progress. He added that Kharouba Center will develop a special program to raise awareness and educate students about the serious effects of this menace on our society, extending it to 54 centers nationwide. Moreover, he highlighted the university’s efforts to reintegrate addicts into social and educational life, making it a commendable experience, particularly in collaboration with prison administrations regarding the reintegration of incarcerated students.

    In this context, Dr. Obeidat Abdul Karim, an international expert and advisor in preventive measures, presented statistical data registered by specialized bodies from various age groups, indicating that 8% of the world’s population are addicts. He then addressed addiction locally, stating that it affects both males and females, with a 3% addiction rate among females. He mentioned that there are over 600,000 drug addicts, with 60% of injuries resulting from drug addiction. Additionally, 7,757 young men and women have been treated at the Bushawi center. He emphasized the need for a national strategy to combat drug abuse and promote prevention measures. He also highlighted the widespread impact of this serious issue on social, environmental, and sports aspects of society. Furthermore, a scientific intervention was presented regarding the psychological and social factors exacerbating drug abuse within the community, starting from the family and activating its role in social upbringing. The educational and pedagogical environment’s role in shaping individuals within society was also emphasized. Dr. Bahij Yasmina, the national coordinator for community health at the Algerian Red Crescent, announced the establishment of anti-drug clubs on campus, initiated by Kharouba Center, comprising student volunteers for early diagnosis and prevention of addiction. Dr. Karamshiya Abdul Haq, a specialist in mental health, psychology, and addiction treatment, provided a definition of addiction, its stages, and methods of quitting.

    At the conclusion of this awareness day, Professor Yahia Jaafari, the university’s rector, honored the specialists and interveners, expressing gratitude to the Kharouba Center, Fadil Wortlani Club, the Algerian Red Crescent, Barney Hospital, and all the experts for their efforts. He affirmed that these meetings will expand and deepen in the future to serve our youth and protect them from all risks and threats.