UGC plans to begin course on substance abuse awareness
The proposed two-credit, 30-hour course combines theory with practical activities focused on sensitisation, awareness and community engagement
On August 2, Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the "Nasha Mukt Yuva for Viksit Bharat" campaign, which marked the beginning of the 100-week effort. In response to this initiative, the University Grants Commission (UGC) issued a notice on August 11, inviting feedback on a draft model curriculum for a course on "Substance Abuse: Prevention and Management" for undergraduate and postgraduate students.
The proposed course is a two-credit, 30-hour program that blends theoretical knowledge with practical activities aimed at increasing awareness and community engagement against substance abuse. UGC Secretary Shyama Rath issued the notice seeking comments from stakeholders within 15 days. The draft curriculum intends to "promote healthy lifestyles, mental well-being, life skills, and responsible citizenship" in accordance with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020.
The curriculum aims to educate students about the "neurobiological and psychosocial mechanisms underlying addiction," associated risk factors, and mental-health vulnerabilities. Students will learn to use validated screening tools to detect possible substance or alcohol use problems and will study Screening, Brief Intervention and Referral to Treatment (SBIRT), clinical management, counselling, relapse prevention, rehabilitation, and recovery support.
While the draft requires students to participate in at least five activities, such as rehabilitation-centre visits, expert talks, NGO interactions, social-media campaigns, ideathons, and survey-based studies, it remains unclear whether the UGC will make the course compulsory for all undergraduate and postgraduate students. The UGC has not responded to requests for clarification.
The notice indicates that the proposed course may also be introduced as part of existing course offerings in higher education institutions. The draft curriculum suggests that the commission may leave the decision on course credits and distribution over semesters to individual higher education institutions.
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