Scientific Conference on Combating Narcotics Held in Balkh

University lecturers, researchers, and local officials gathered in a scientific research conference in Balkh to examine the challenges posed by narcotics and explore ways to prevent drug use.

The conference, organized by a private university, featured more than 20 specialized research papers. Participants emphasized the importance of joint efforts by the government and the public in combating narcotics.

“The purpose of this gathering is to contribute to sound management and better policymaking in the fight against narcotics and to assist policymakers of the Islamic Emirate,” said Hashmatullah Rezaei, the university’s academic deputy.

“We hope such conferences will continue because scientific research not only raises public awareness but can also help relevant institutions identify solutions to existing challenges,” said Hamidullah Omarkhail, deputy editor of Balkh University’s academic and research journal.

Local officials highlighted the role of educational institutions in raising public awareness and combating narcotics, while stressing the importance of modern education. They also called on citizens to cooperate in preventing drug use and reducing its harmful effects.

“Religious and modern sciences are both necessities of our time and deserve attention,” said Noorulhadi Abu Idris, deputy governor of Balkh.

University lecturers also identified social and economic factors as key drivers of drug use and stressed that the findings of academic research should be incorporated into policymaking and management efforts aimed at combating the phenomenon.

“It is up to government institutions to determine the extent to which they make use of these scientific studies, into which considerable effort has been invested,” said university lecturer Ghulam Sakhi Sayes.

According to experts, healthy family upbringing, education, employment opportunities, and a suitable social environment play an important role in preventing young people from turning to narcotics. They also stressed that expanding alternative crops and creating sustainable sources of income for farmers are among the key factors in the long-term fight against the narcotics economy.