Dhamar: Dhamar University on Wednesday inaugurated the First Scientific Conference on Confronting Addiction Challenges in Yemeni Society, organized by the Faculty of Medical Sciences, with the participation of academics, physicians, educators, judicial officials, security agencies, and relevant institutions.
According to Yemen News Agency, the two-day conference discusses research papers on awareness strategies against addiction, its causes, the health, psychological, and ethical harms of drugs, their risks to individuals and society, prevention methods, effective treatment models, and the importance of strengthening cooperation among relevant authorities in combating drugs.
Governor of Dhamar Mohammed Al-Bakheiti praised the university's efforts in holding scientific events that address pressing societal challenges. He warned of the dangers of addiction and the expanding spread of drugs, noting that many do not realize they are also being used as a weapon to subjugate peoples and impose dominance.
Al-Bakheiti added that drugs are being used against the Yemeni people by the aggression forces, stressing the importance of raising awareness and remaining vigilant to confront a threat that undermines health, values, and social stability.
Deputy Minister of Education and Scientific Research Dr. Hatem Al-Da'is highlighted the importance of the conference in addressing the psychological, educational, and health impacts of drugs and limiting their spread. He expressed hope that the conference would produce practical and measurable recommendations, with committees assigned to follow up on their implementation. He also underscored the need for coordination among Yemeni universities in organizing similar events.
Chairman of Dhamar University and head of the conference's supervisory committee Dr. Mohammed al-Haifi noted that hosting the conference reflects the university's national and scientific responsibility toward one of the most dangerous challenges facing Yemeni society. He emphasized that the university's role goes beyond academic teaching to becoming a center of thought and expertise and an active partner in social issues.
Conference Chair and Dean of the Faculty of Medical Sciences Dr. Adel Omran stated that the event brings together diverse expertise to confront one of the most serious threats to social cohesion. He emphasized that the conference embodies the belief that knowledge is the strongest weapon in this critical battle, integrating medical, psychological, and social dimensions to place human wellbeing at the center.
The conference also includes scientific sessions, experience-exchange platforms, exhibitions of student activities, and displays from the Drug Control Authority and supporting companies, in addition to a free mental-health medical camp.
Director of the General Directorate for Drug Control Col. Mohammed al-Mutawakil highlighted the alarming rise in drug seizures, which increased from 45 tons before the aggression to 500 tons during it, stressing the importance of treatment centers and raising societal awareness in combating drugs and trafficking.