AlKhidmat Foundation Pakistan, in collaboration with the World Health Organization (WHO), has officially inaugurated the "Smoke Free Premises" campaign. The opening ceremony took place at the AlKhidmat Complex, with esteemed representatives including Dr. Palitha Mahipala from WHO, Prof. Dr. Hafeez Ur Rahman, President of AlKhidmat Foundation Pakistan, Secretary General Syed Waqqas Jafri, Chairman of AlKhidmat Health Foundation Prof. Dr. Muhammad Zahid Latif, and other key officials.
Addressing the gathering, Dr. Hafeez Ur Rehman emphasized the critical need for creating awareness about the harmful effects of smoking in Pakistani society, particularly in service-related institutions. He revealed that a comprehensive plan has been devised to effectively disseminate information about the dangers of smoking.
Disturbingly, Dr. Rehman highlighted that every six seconds, one person loses their life due to smoking globally, and in Pakistan, a staggering 2 lakh people succumb to smoking-related diseases annually. The primary goal of the "Smoke Free Premises" campaign is to combat tobacco-induced illnesses. Dr. Rehman underscored that the health of the community and the creation of a pollution-free society are paramount priorities.
Alkhidmat Foundation has undertaken the responsibility of organizing training workshops for staff, volunteers, and ambassadors. These initiatives aim to raise awareness about the harmful effects of smoking across offices, homes, hospitals, and educational institutions. Volunteers and ambassadors will actively engage with the public in universities, colleges, schools, and other public spaces. Dr. Rehman further stated that the campaign will leverage traditional and social media to effectively reach a broad audience, fostering a smoke-free society.
Expressing gratitude to Dr. Palitha Mahipala, WHO representative, Dr. Rehman acknowledged the special interest taken in safeguarding the Pakistani community from the adverse effects of smoking. Dr. Mahipala, in his address, commended Alkhidmat Foundation's invaluable services to society and pledged full support from the World Health Organization in the fight against smoking-related harm.
Professor Dr. Muhammad Zahid Latif, Chairman of Alkhidmat Health Foundation, expressed optimism about the campaign's potential to yield significant results. He believes that the initiative will contribute to reducing health problems and serve as a model for other communities.
The collaborative efforts of Alkhidmat Foundation and the World Health Organization mark a significant stride towards building a healthier, smoke-free Pakistan. The campaign's success in service institutions is anticipated to set an inspiring example for emulation nationwide.
