Academics as the Frontline in Assisting the Government’s Drug Prevention Efforts
Jakarta — Support from the academic community is increasingly proving to be crucial in combating the circulation and abuse of narcotics in Indonesia. The National Narcotics Agency (BNN) emphasized that universities, as centers for character building and moral values for the younger generation, can serve as a stronghold in drug prevention efforts.
“The educational environment, especially universities, is a strategic place to shape character, moral values, and critical thinking among young generations,” said the BNN’s Main Secretary, Inspector General of Police Tantan Sulistyana, during the signing of a cooperation agreement with MH Thamrin University in Jakarta.
He stressed that this collaboration is a concrete step by BNN to involve educational institutions in the war against drugs. According to him, students are a productive age group highly vulnerable to negative influences, including narcotics.
“We express our highest appreciation to MH Thamrin University for their readiness to support BNN’s efforts in addressing narcotics problems and participating in the mission to save the nation’s generation from the dangers of narcotics abuse,” said Inspector General Tantan.
He hopes this cooperation will boost students’ mental immunity against abuse and the illicit circulation of narcotics and narcotics precursors. Therefore, the involvement of universities is no longer just an option but a moral and social necessity.
The agreement covers education, socialization, and the involvement of the academic community in activities related to education, research, and publications concerning narcotics. This cooperation refers to the Tri Dharma of Higher Education as the main foundation for empowering academics in drug eradication efforts.
MH Thamrin University Rector, Daeng Mohammad Faqih, also reaffirmed his institution’s commitment to creating a drug-free campus environment.
“With this MoU as a form of community service, we are ready to collaborate with BNN to conduct outreach in drug-affected villages,” said Daeng.
This commitment was further strengthened through a Clean Campus Drug-Free Public Lecture attended by around 200 students. During the lecture, BNN’s Junior Expert Drug Counselor, Eva Fitri Yuanita, provided insight into the dangers of narcotics abuse.
This collaboration demonstrates that drug eradication is not only the responsibility of government agencies but requires active involvement from the academic world as agents of change. With this synergy, the hope to save the younger generation from the threat of drugs becomes increasingly tangible.