President orders zero tolerance on drugs around educational institutions to protect youth

President Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir on Wednesday called for an unyielding zero-tolerance policy against illegal drugs across educational institutions, demanding that campuses and adjacent areas be kept completely drug-free to protect students and young people from substance abuse.

The Head of State issued the directive during a courtesy call by a delegation from Uttara University, led by its founder and Vice-Chancellor Prof Dr Yasmeen Ara Lekha, at Bangabhaban on Wednesday morning.

Briefing reporters following the meeting, President’s Press Secretary Md Sarwar Alam said the President stressed the urgent need for decisive action to eliminate drug exposure around academic environments to ensure the safety and well-being of the youth.

During the interaction, Prof Dr Yasmeen Ara Lekha presented a comprehensive briefing on Uttara University’s ongoing academic programs, educational standards, and research projects.

The delegation also outlined the institution’s key facilities alongside the administrative and infrastructural challenges it currently faces.

In response, President Mirza Fakhrul assured the university authorities that the concerns brought to his attention would be addressed.

The Vice-Chancellor extended a formal invitation to the President, in his capacity as university Chancellor, to preside over the institution’s upcoming convocation. President Mirza Fakhrul accepted the invitation and confirmed his participation in the ceremony.

The meeting brought together key administrative and academic figures from both sides. The President’s military secretary, secretary, and press secretary attended the discussion alongside Uttara University’s advisers, assistant professors, and members of its Board of Trustees.