The Dhaka University Journalists' Association (DUJA) has demanded proper enforcement of the Smoking and Tobacco Products Usage (Control) Act 2005, as amended in 2026, to make the university tobacco- and smoke-free. The demand was made at a DUJA and DORP dialogue on Tuesday, 29 September, in the Shaheed Mofazzal Haider Chowdhury conference room of the Arts Building.

Chief guest Professor Dr Mohammad Almojaddedi Alfesani, pro-vice-chancellor (administration), said it should be monitored whether tobacco products are sold in residential halls and campus shops, and that any university permission for such sales should be reviewed and acted on.

He urged anti-tobacco leaflets, posters and stickers across the campus and said the initiative must move beyond talk to a workable action plan, promising the administration's help if the organisers put forward proposals. Arts faculty dean Professor Dr Md Abul Kalam Sarker was special guest.

DORP programme coordinator Zeba Afroz presented the keynote paper. Md Abdus Salam Mia, programme manager at CTFK Bangladesh, DORP adviser and retired secretary Md Azhar Ali Talukder and DORP founder and CEO AHM Noman also spoke. DUJA president Md Manjur Hossain chaired.

Speakers discussed the health risks of tobacco and smoking, the existing law, controlling tobacco sales on campus and the media's role in tobacco control. They stressed effective enforcement alongside regular awareness work, and DUJA pledged to support public health through responsible journalism.

The report is by Desh Rupantor's Dhaka University correspondent.

Photo: Desh Rupantor

Source: Desh Rupantor