WORLD NO TOBACCO DAY OBSERVANCE

Time: 11:00 AM – 12:15 PM
Venue: Seminar Hall, K.T.N College of Pharmacy

World No Tobacco Day is observed annually on May 31st to raise awareness about the harmful and deadly effects of tobacco use and to discourage the consumption of tobacco in any form. In alignment with this global health initiative spearheaded by the World Health Organization (WHO), K.T.N College of Pharmacy organized a seminar on the theme “Unmasking the Appeal: Exposing Industry Tactics on Tobacco & Nicotine Products.” The program aimed to educate students and staff about the manipulative strategies used by the tobacco industry and to encourage a tobacco-free lifestyle. The event commenced with a warm welcome speech delivered by Dr. K.S.G. Arulkumaran, Principal, K.T.N College of Pharmacy. He emphasized the importance of preventive education and advocacy in controlling tobacco use, particularly among youth. The resource person for the session was Ms. Aswathi K P, Adolescent Health Counsellor from FHC Chalavara, Palakkad. She delivered an insightful presentation on the tactics employed by tobacco and nicotine companies to lure consumers, especially adolescents. Her talk highlighted how packaging, advertising, flavoured products, and sponsorships are used strategically to target young individuals. She also discussed the short and long-term health consequences of tobacco and nicotine addiction. An interactive session followed the talk, where students actively posed questions and shared their views, making it a highly engaging segment of the event. All attendees took a collective anti-tobacco pledge, affirming their commitment to refrain from using tobacco products and to spread awareness in their
communities. As a gesture of appreciation, a token of love was presented to the guest speaker by the organizing team.

The program concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Mrs. Anjali Sruthy, Associate Professor, Department of Pharmacy Practice, KTNCP. She expressed gratitude to the speaker, management, faculty, and students for their active participation and support in making the event a success.

The event was successfully organized by the KTNCP NSS Unit in association with the IIC & Department of Pharmacy Practice KTNCP.The observance of World No Tobacco Day 2025 at K.T.N College of Pharmacy served as a powerful reminder of the dangers posed by tobacco products and the need to stand against the tactics of the tobacco industry. The seminar empowered students with knowledge and reinforced the values of a healthy, tobacco-free
life.