SHANGLA: District Police Officer (DPO) Shangla Ikram Ullah has stressed that young people have a vital role to play in promoting sustainable peace, national unity and stability, urging students to reject extremism, avoid drugs and use social media responsibly.
He expressed these views while addressing a seminar on peace, security and national unity organised at the University of Shangla on Wednesday.
Deputy Commissioner Shangla Muhammad Abdullah Shah, Vice Chancellor University of Shangla Dr Professor Sardar Khan, university faculty members, administrative officials and students also addressed the gathering and discussed issues related to law and order, national security, social harmony and the role of youth in addressing emerging challenges.
DPO Ikram Ullah said peace and security were fundamental requirements for the development and prosperity of any societudents and young people as the future of the country and encouraged them to channel their abilities towards constructive and positive activities. He stressed the importance of tolerance, mutual respect, social harmony and national unity in strengthening society.
The DPO said maintaining law and order was no longer solely the responsibility of state institutions, adding that citizens, particularly young people, must also play an active role.
“If all segments of society cooperate and demonstrate responsibility, sustainable peace and stability can be strengthened,” he said.
Discussing terrorism and extremism, Ikram Ullah said law enforcement agencies were performing their duties with dedication, but the complete elimination of terrorism and extremist thinking could not be achieved through force alone.
He emphasised the need for education, awareness, positive thinking, social unity and tolerance to address the underlying challenges facing society.
The DPO also urged students to exercise extreme caution when using social media. He advised them not to share unverified news, rumours or misleading material without checking its authenticity, warning that misinformation could create anxiety, confusion and unrest.
He encouraged young people to use social media as a platform for knowledge, awareness and positive social activities.
Speaking about drug abuse, Ikram Ullah said narcotics posed a serious threat to young people and society. He stressed that police, educational institutions, parents, teachers and other sections of society would have to work together to protect youth from drugs.
He said providing young people with healthy, positive and constructive opportunities was essential to preventing drug abuse and other harmful activities.
The DPO said Shangla Police was working professionally to maintain law and order, protect the lives and property of citizens and provide a safe environment across the district. He added that stronger cooperation between the police and the public could further strengthen peace and security.
Deputy Commissioner Muhammad Abdullah Shah and Vice Chancellor Dr Professor Sardar Khan also highlighted the importance of national unity, peace, security, mutual tolerance and the role of young people in confronting contemporary challenges.
The speakers said national unity and tolerance were among the most effective tools for addressing social and security challenges, while education and a strong sense of national responsibility should also be promoted among young people.
During the event, the University of Shangla administration presented honorary shields and appreciation certificates to the deputy commissioner and DPO in recognition of their services to peace promotion and public service.
Certificates were also distributed among students who had demonstrated outstanding performance.
The seminar concluded with a peace walk attended by students, teachers and administrative officials. Participants expressed their commitment to promoting peace and security, countering extremism, strengthening national unity and protecting young people from harmful and negative activities.y. He said only a peaceful and stable environment could enable a country to make sustained progress in education, economic development and other sectors.