The Youth Red Cross (YRC) of Paavai Arts and Science College for Women organized an awareness programme on “Effects of Drug Abuse” on 25 June 2026 at Keerthi Hall to educate students on the harmful effects of substance abuse and the importance of mental well-being.
The programme commenced with a prayer song followed by Tamil Thaai Vaazhthu rendered by the students. A. Nivetha, II B.Com, welcomed the gathering.
The Principal delivered the presidential address and honoured the Chief Guest with a memento. In her address, she emphasized that drug abuse weakens individuals physically, mentally, and socially. She also cautioned students about the growing impact of social media addiction and encouraged them to adopt healthy lifestyle habits.
V. Durgadevi, III B.Sc. Computer Science, introduced the Chief Guest, Dr. G. Prasanthini, M.D. (Psychiatry), Satellite Psychiatrist, District Mental Health Programme (DMHP), Namakkal District.
Addressing the students, Dr. Prasanthini stressed the importance of mental health, stating, “There is no health without mental health.” She explained the physical and emotional changes experienced during adolescence, identity formation, relationship challenges, and the functioning of the emotional brain and the brain’s control centre. She also highlighted the harmful effects of mobile phone addiction and shared practical suggestions for maintaining a healthy and balanced lifestyle.
The programme also featured a special address by Dr. E. G. Wesley, Associate Professor of Botany and YRC District Organizer, Arignar Anna Government Arts College, Namakkal, who created awareness about the dangers of drug abuse and motivated students to stay away from addictive substances. He also distributed prizes to the winners of the slogan writing competition conducted as part of the awareness programme.
Prize Winners:
- First Prize: P. Padmapriya, II B.Sc. Nutrition and Dietetics
- Second Prize: Mounika, II B.Sc. Computer Science
- Third Prize: Janani, III B.Sc. Artificial Intelligence and Data Science
As a mark of appreciation, Dr. E. G. Wesley honoured the Principal with a memento, while the Principal felicitated the YRC Coordinator with a shawl for her dedicated efforts in organizing the programme.
The vote of thanks was proposed by K. Yasmin, II B.Com. Students actively participated in the programme with great enthusiasm. A pledge against drug abuse was administered, reinforcing the commitment to lead a healthy and drug-free life. The programme concluded with the National Anthem, leaving the participants with a deeper understanding of mental well-being and the importance of making responsible life choices.
