Ministry of Higher Education, Science and Innovation of the Republic of Uzbekistan

The event brought together representatives of the Ministry of Internal Affairs of the Republic of Uzbekistan, the Agency for Control of Narcotics and Firearms, the Ministry of Health, the Ministry of Higher Education, Science and Innovations, the Ministry of Preschool and School Education, the Youth Affairs Agency, and the Mahalla Association of Uzbekistan.

In his address, Deputy Minister of Higher Education, Science and Innovations O‘ktam Salomov emphasized that preventing drug abuse and drug-related crime among students remains a priority area of the Ministry’s work.

It was reported that in accordance with the Presidential Decree of November 3, 2025, “On Comprehensive Measures to Effectively Protect Public Health and the Nation’s Gene Pool from Drug Abuse and Drug-Related Crime,” preventive and awareness-raising activities in higher education institutions have been systematically strengthened in cooperation with the Ministry of Internal Affairs and the Agency for Control of Narcotics and Firearms. Under the slogan “Say No to Drugs!”, 187 educational and preventive events were conducted, reaching more than 37,000 students. An additional 187 preventive events were organized in local communities involving unorganized youth.

Furthermore, “Youth Advocacy Groups” were established in 116 higher education institutions, carrying out 248 targeted activities in November–December 2025. Within the framework of the “Mahalla — Family Polyclinic — Educational Institution” model, 311 joint preventive events were conducted, engaging nearly 59,000 young participants.

“Qalqon” security patrol units were formed in universities, involving thousands of students and faculty members. Special emphasis has been placed on fostering a zero-tolerance attitude toward drug abuse through theater studios, sports initiatives, and spiritual and educational activities.

The press conference also presented a roadmap for 2026, including training seminars for prevention inspectors, monitoring of “Qalqon” patrol activities, organization of nationwide stage competitions, and expanded engagement of youth in mass sports programs.

As noted, the most effective approach to combating drug abuse is to guide young people toward a healthy lifestyle, sports participation, and educational enrichment. Comprehensive and continuous preventive efforts across all educational institutions will therefore be sustained.