SRINAGAR, JUNE 05: To strengthen its commitment to student health and promote a tobacco-free campus environment, the University of Kashmir (KU) today inaugurated a Tobacco Cessation Center at its University Health Center in collaboration with the Government Dental College, Srinagar.
The center, primarily aimed at supporting students in quitting tobacco, seeks to reduce the risk of tobacco-related diseases, including cardiac and respiratory issues, and enhance the mental well-being and academic performance of students. A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was also signed on this occasion between the University and Government Dental College to formalize the partnership.
Vice-Chancellor KU, Prof. Nilofer Khan, while inaugurating the center, said, “This center sends a strong message that the university is committed to the health and wellbeing of its students and employees. It contributes to creating a campus culture that discourages the use of tobacco and related products and will support those who wish to quit.”
In his remarks Registrar KU, Prof. Naseer Iqbal said that the establishment of the center will generate a positive ripple effect by fostering healthier social norms and significantly contributing to the reduction of tobacco use across the campus community.
Principal, Government Dental College, Srinagar, Prof. (Dr.) Sandeep Kour Bali emphasized that educational institutions play a broader role in public health, adding that by implementing effective tobacco cessation programs, we actively reduce the social burden of tobacco-related disorders.
Dr. Aasim Farooq Shah, Head of the Department of Public Health Dentistry, said the initiative aligns with national health strategies and reflects the shared responsibility of academia and healthcare in preventive care. “The centre will follow DCI and NMC operational guidelines, offering both pharmacological and non-pharmacological support across departments,” he noted. Earlier Dr. Khalid Nazir, Coordinator, University Health Center, emphasized that the center is dedicated to supporting students in their journey to quit tobacco and to safeguard them from serious health risks while also improving their mental wellness and academic outcomes. Dr. Surayyah Jan and Dr. Azhar Ahad, Medical Officers KU, ensured the successful launch of this significant health initiative.