Bandipora: In a bid to raise awareness about the growing menace of drug addiction and promote cultural and spiritual values among the youth, the Rehmatullah Lil Aalameen Foundation, in collaboration with Care Foundation & Charitable Trust, organised a symposium on drug abuse along with a Naat competition at M.D Hajini Memorial Public School, Hajin Sonawari on Saturday.
The event, held on 24 May, witnessed enthusiastic participation from hundreds of students representing various government and private schools across the district. Prominent personalities in attendance included Sheikh Firdous, Chairman of Rehmatullah Lil Aalameen Foundation; Dr. Mehjabeen Nabi, Chairperson of Care Foundation & Charitable Trust; Haji Ghulam Nabi Dar, Chairman of Auqaf Committee Hajin; and the Principal of M.D Hajini Memorial Public School, who served as the Guest of Honour.
The top three winners of the Naat competition were felicitated with cash prizes of ₹1500, ₹1000, and ₹700 respectively, along with mementos, in recognition of their exceptional performances.
Speaking to the media, Dr. Mehjabeen Nabi emphasized the importance of early intervention and community involvement in tackling drug addiction. “Our aim is to sensitize students about the harmful effects of drugs and encourage them to become ambassadors of change in their communities. Through such programs, we hope to promote positive values and inspire moral responsibility among the youth,” she said.
Echoing similar sentiments, Sheikh Firdous underlined the foundation’s commitment to social welfare and youth empowerment. “Drug abuse is a grave concern that threatens the fabric of our society, especially our younger generation. Through this initiative, we aim to educate, engage, and empower our youth to choose a path of righteousness. The Naat competition was included to reconnect students with cultural and spiritual values, which are essential for building a responsible and ethical society,” he said.
The school management expressed heartfelt gratitude to both organizing foundations for their efforts and hoped that more such awareness and cultural events would be held in the future to benefit students and the wider community.
