KARACHI:A three members delegation led by Mr. Jeremy Milsom, the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) Country Representative, called upon the Chief Secretary Sindh Mr. Sohail Rajput to hold discussions regarding the establishment of a model drug rehabilitation center in the province.
The proposed facility will be fully funded and operated by the Government of Sindh with technical assistance from the UNODC, adhering to international best practices in drug rehabilitation. The meeting was attended by Arsalan Malik head of Sub Office (UNODC), Secretary Home, Aijaz Ali Shah, Secretary Social Welfare Dr. Shereen Mustufa, Secretary General Administration Muhammad Ali Khoso, Secretary Health Zulfiqar Ali Shah.
During the meeting, the Chief Secretary Sindh Dr. Muhammad Sohail Rajput appraised the UNODC delegation for the commendable efforts made by the Sindh government in collaboration with the Anti-Narcotics Force (ANF). As a result of this collaboration, two drug rehabilitation centers have been successfully established in Maghopir and Malir having capacity of accommodating 300 individuals seeking recovery. He further stated that the UNODC rehabilitation center will serve as a benchmark for private rehabilitation centers in the region. The center’s operations, protocols, and service standards will be designed to reflect global best practices in drug addiction treatment. Private rehabilitation centers will be encouraged to follow it, thereby ensuring uniformity and excellence in the provision of drug rehabilitation services.
Speaking on the occasion, Jeremy Milsom said that the establishment of the UNODC drug rehabilitation center marks a significant milestone in the ongoing efforts to address the scourge of drug addiction. This joint endeavor will not only help individuals in their journey towards recovery but also contribute to the greater goal of creating a healthier and drug-free society. He further informed the meeting that the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) is a global leader in the fight against illicit drugs, organized crime, corruption, and terrorism. The organization works closely with governments and international partners to strengthen legal frameworks, promote justice and security, and provide technical assistance in tackling these complex challenges.
The meeting also decided to launch an awareness campaign throughout the Province of Sindh with the technical assistance from the UNODC Office in Pakistan. The awareness campaign will encompass various communication channels, including media, community outreach programs, educational institutions, and social media platforms. Through compelling messaging, targeted initiatives, and engaging activities, the campaign endeavors to raise public awareness about the risks and consequences of drug addiction, encouraging individuals to make informed choices and seek help when needed.
