Following death of a student Lahore University of Management Sciences (LUMS) has issued a statement clarifying its stance on drug usage on campus.
A LUMS student, Shahmir Asif Bajwa was found dead on December 12 in an on-campus hostel room had overdosed on drugs.
Shahmir was found unconscious in his room and he was immediately taken to the National Defence Hospital, where doctors pronounced he had expired earlier in the day.
In its statement issued by LUMS administration stated, “There has since been speculation within the media that Shahmir’s death was caused by a drug overdose. While the cause of death has yet to be determined, the LUMS administration would like to make clear that it recognizes that drug and substance abuse is a real challenge plaguing educational institutions and society at large, and that this issue is taken extremely seriously. This involves two layers of security and hostel staff. Any infractions are reported and dealt with according to procedures that are transparent and documented. A firm principled approach is taken with all students who are in violation of the zero tolerance policy.”
Read: LUMS student Shahmir Asif Bajwa found dead in hostel room
A well-trained security force with SOPs regarding entry and exit from campus ensures general safety at LUMS. The campus is well covered with CCTV, and all reports of drug violations, whether from security staff, cameras, or individual complaints, are followed up rigorously,”
LUMS further said, “It is also recognised that addiction is a medical condition. In cases where students have sought help, they have been referred for medical treatment.”
