In a proactive step towards nurturing healthier communities and building a tobacco-free future, RYTHM Foundation’s Maharani Learning Lab collaborated with Tobacco-Free Generation International (TFGi) and Children’s Industry, Lifelong Learning and Development Hub (CHILD) to conduct a meaningful educational session aimed at empowering the youth to combat the pervasive influence of tobacco.
Designed for students, this educational session leveraged the expertise of Dr. Koong Heng Nung from TFGi and Ms. Eena Khalil from CHILD, who led the program alongside five dedicated student facilitators. A total of 19 enthusiastic students participated, eager to learn and equip themselves with the knowledge to make a difference.
Moving beyond mere information dissemination, the workshop utilized highly interactive methods, including dynamic group discussions and engaging role-play activities. This approach was specifically chosen to enhance the students’ understanding of the detrimental effects of tobacco and create a deeper, more personal connection to the issue.
A key focus of the session was to clearly demonstrate the adverse health consequences associated with tobacco use. Beyond the known physical harm of tobacco usage, the program also critically highlighted the tobacco industry’s manipulative marketing tactics. Participants gained insight into how these tactics specifically target vulnerable populations, such as youth and low-income communities, exploiting their circumstances and aspirations for profit.
Emphasizing the power of peer education, each participant was actively encouraged to embrace their roles as advocates and leaders within their own communities and inspired to spread awareness and guide their peers towards making informed, healthy choices.
By equipping the youth with the right knowledge for community well-being, this workshop by the Maharani Learning Lab empowered the younger generation to take a collective stand against smoking and similar harmful activities and encourage whole communities to live a healthier, tobacco-free lifestyle!
