Al-Turath University (TU), as part of its continuous efforts to promote public health and align with Sustainable Development Goal 3 (Good Health and Well-Being), organized a university-wide symposium entitled “Towards a Smoke-Free Campus: Health, Awareness, and Responsibility.” The event aimed to raise awareness among students, faculty, and staff about the dangers of smoking and to reinforce the university’s newly adopted Smoke-Free and Tobacco-Free Campus Policy (2024).
The symposium was held at the main conference hall and brought together healthcare professionals, public health experts, and university representatives. During the opening remarks, the President of Al-Turath University emphasized the university’s commitment to creating a healthier academic environment, highlighting that the new policy is not only about prohibiting smoking but also about cultivating a culture of wellness, prevention, and environmental responsibility.
Keynote speakers from the Faculty of Pharmacy and the Health and Wellness Office presented scientific insights on the harmful effects of tobacco and vaping products. They discussed the health risks associated with smoking, including respiratory diseases, cardiovascular disorders, and cancer, as well as the impact of second-hand smoke on non-smokers. Special attention was given to how smoking contributes to environmental pollution and carbon emissions.
As part of the symposium, TU launched a campus-wide awareness campaign under the slogan “Breathe Clean, Live Better.” The campaign includes health posters, educational workshops, and counseling sessions to support students and staff who wish to quit smoking. The Health and Wellness Office announced that smoking cessation services are available free of charge for all members of the university community, supported by collaborations with local health institutions.
The event also featured student-led discussions and short film screenings that showcased the social and environmental consequences of tobacco use. Participants were encouraged to sign the “Smoke-Free Pledge,” committing to uphold TU’s smoke-free campus initiative and promote healthier lifestyle choices.
Through this symposium, Al-Turath University reaffirmed its dedication to advancing a smoke-free learning environment and enhancing awareness of the health risks associated with smoking. The initiative reflects TU’s broader mission to integrate health, sustainability, and education, empowering the next generation to lead healthier and more responsible lives.
For more information, visit: https://uoturath.edu.iq/en/