Scientific symposium

As part of the Drug Awareness Week organised by Wasit University, the Faculty of Medicine organised an educational seminar in collaboration with the Wasit Health Department, the University Psychological Counselling Unit, and the Volunteer Work Unit. The seminar was presented by Professor Mahdi Abdul Karim and attended by a large number of officials and academics, confirming the university’s commitment to spreading health awareness and reducing the dangers of drugs in society.
The seminar was attended by distinguished guests from the Faculty of Medicine, including the Scientific Assistant to the University President, Prof. Dr. Sabih Lfta, and the Dean of the Faculty of Medicine, Assistant Professor Dr. Nasir Kazim Al-Maliki, in addition to the Scientific Assistant to the Dean, Professor Dr. Ahmed Ibrahim Insaf, and the Administrative Assistant, Assistant Professor Dr. Salim Rahif Al-Aydi.
During his lecture, Dr. Mahdi Abdul Karim discussed the latest scientific information on types of drugs and their effects on the nervous system, highlighting the serious health risks they pose, including memory disorders, cognitive impairment, heart and respiratory problems, in addition to their social effects, such as increased rates of violence, family breakdown, unemployment, and the economic burden they place on health institutions.
The importance of the awareness-raising role of universities in protecting young people from this scourge and promoting a culture of prevention and early detection was also emphasised, with presentations on successful treatment experiences and guidelines for dealing with cases requiring psychological support.
The symposium concluded with a set of recommendations focusing on the need to strengthen cooperation between the university, health sectors, and the psychological counselling unit to continue awareness campaigns and organise periodic programmes targeting students and the local community. The Faculty of Medicine renewed its commitment to continuing its efforts to combat drugs and spread a culture of health awareness, thereby contributing to the protection of society and the creation of a conscious generation capable of facing challenges.