World No Tobacco Day Awareness Class

As part of the observance of World No Tobacco Day (May 31), an awareness class was conducted on 30 May 2026 for the IT Customer Care Executive trainees to educate them about the harmful effects of tobacco, drugs, and other addictive substances.

The session was led by Mr. Yohanan Antony, President of the KCBC Madhyavirudha Samithi, Kollam Diocese. In his informative presentation, he shared several real-life experiences of individuals who became victims of drug addiction and explained the devastating impact it had on their lives and families. Through these stories, he emphasized the importance of making wise decisions and avoiding harmful habits from an early age.

He explained that addiction often begins with curiosity, peer pressure, or experimentation but gradually develops into a lifelong dependency. He highlighted how tobacco and drug abuse can lead to serious health problems, financial difficulties, loss of self-respect, broken relationships, and social isolation. He also stressed that prevention is always better than cure and encouraged the trainees to cultivate positive friendships, healthy habits, and responsible lifestyles.

Mr. Yohanan Antony, President of the KCBC Madhyavirudha Samithi, Kollam Diocese, reminded the participants that tobacco use remains one of the leading causes of preventable diseases and deaths worldwide. He encouraged the trainees to become role models in their families, workplaces, and communities by promoting a tobacco-free and drug-free lifestyle. He also urged them to spread awareness among their friends and colleagues about the dangers of addiction.

The interactive session provided an opportunity for the trainees to reflect on the challenges faced by addicted individuals and the importance of supporting those seeking recovery. It helped them understand the value of physical and mental well-being and the need to protect themselves from harmful influences.

A pledge against tobacco and drug abuse was administered by Fr. Antony Joseph, Director of Don Bosco Tech. The trainees solemnly pledged to stay away from tobacco, drugs, and all forms of addiction and to actively promote healthy habits and awareness within society.

The programme concluded with a slogan campaign led by Fr. Abhilash Antony, Province Coordinator, Don Bosco for Migrants (DB4M). All participants enthusiastically joined in raising the slogan:

"Say No to Drugs, Say No to Tobacco, Choose Life!"

The awareness programme was highly informative, inspiring, and impactful. It successfully reinforced the message of World No Tobacco Day and motivated the IT Customer Care Executive trainees to commit themselves to a healthier, addiction-free future while contributing to the creation of a safe, healthy, and drug-free society.