A total of 365 drug-related cases were reported in universities across Pakistan during the year 2025, according to official documents.
The data shows growing concerns over substance abuse within higher education institutions, prompting lawmakers to seek a detailed report on preventive measures from relevant authorities.
In the federal capital alone, 143 cases were reported across nine universities, including 10 involving female students. Parliamentary sources said legislators have formally demanded updates on steps being taken to curb drug use in educational institutions.
According to documents available to The Express, a total of 385 cases of drug use were reported across 58 higher education institutions during the academic year 2025. These include a significant number of student-related incidents as well as 10 cases involving supporting staff.
Breakdown of the data shows that federal universities reported the highest number of cases at 153, followed by Punjab with 130 cases, Sindh with 75, and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa with 7 cases.
The report further indicates that 28 female students were involved in cases in Punjab universities, 10 in federal institutions, and 8 in Sindh. Interestingly, no cases involving female students were reported in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa during the period under review.
Officials noted that no cases of drug use were reported among faculty members in any university across the country.
The Higher Education Commission (HEC) stated that a structured monitoring mechanism has been put in place to curb drug and tobacco use in educational institutions.
According to the policy, “Anti-Drug and Tobacco Committees” have been established in 245 public and private universities and higher education institutions across Pakistan. These committees are tasked with enforcing anti-drug laws, conducting awareness campaigns, and guiding students to discourage substance abuse on campuses.