Background
According to a survey conducted in 2014, approximately 19.1% of adults in Pakistan were smokers. Nonetheless, recently young adults have significantly increased their consumption of nicotine.
Subsequently, in universities it now a norm for students to engage in smoking to look socially desirable. Plus, due to peer pressure, the pursuit of wanting to fit in or become a ‘cool person’ compels such students to smoke. But others may smoke due to addiction, to relieve themselves of academic or personal stress etc.
Whichever may be the cause for smoking, university policies have inclined towards two extremes. either by completely banning it, or allowing smoking without restrictions on campus. Little efforts have achieved middle ground.
Now, let’s look at these two clashing perspectives on smoking, and try to find some middle ground on the question ‘Should smoking be allowed on campus?’
Smoking vs Vaping
Smoking is now a ‘trend’ for the current generation. Vape pods and e-cigarettes’ are marketed and used as accessories. Hence, Vaping is the ‘new cool’ for the younger generations, it is easily hid and available in different colors, so can disguise to look a part of one’s outfit.
So, what is the difference between smoking and vaping? Smoking involves burning tobacco or other substances and inhaling the resulting smoke into the lungs. Whereas, Vaping involves heating a liquid (e-juice) that usually contains nicotine, flavorings, and other additives.
Should smoking be allowed on campus?
Firstly, Those in favor of smoking often cite personal freedom and autonomy as key reasons. They argue that university students are essentially adults, and they should have the right to make their own choices, including the decision to smoke. Secondly, proponents claim that banning smoking on campus restricts upon individual liberties and could lead to a slippery slope of further restrictions on personal behaviors.
However, the policies of the IBA administration have imposed restrictions on personal behaviors including Public Display of Affection, the Dress Code, the strict Attendance Policy as well as the No Smoking policy, it could be argued that there already has been advancements on strangling personal freedom.
Therefore, through rules and regulations advancing on individual behavior, a social environment of ‘desirable’ and ‘undesirable’ is in action hence, in the name of discipline there already exists an infringement on personal autonomy.
Should the campus be Smoke-Free?
Opponents of smoking on campus mainly focus on the negative health consequences associated with smoking and exposure to secondhand smoke. Similarly, numerous studies have established the adverse effects of smoking on both smokers and non-smokers. Including respiratory issues, increased risk of heart disease, and various forms of cancer. Plus, A smoke-free campus not only protects non-smokers from the harmful effects of secondhand smoke (which is more dangerous than smoking itself!) but also discourages smoking initiation among students. Hence, there would be no case of trying to ‘act cool’ with friends by smoking with them.
In addition to health concerns, those in favor of a smoke-free campus highlight the importance of promoting cleanliness. Cigarette butts and litter associated with smoking can contribute to pollution and detract from the aesthetic appeal of the campus. Further, A smoke-free policy aligns with sustainable practices and supports the well-being of the overall campus community.
Should smoking be allowed on campus? A student’s take:
I think it smoking should be a ban because if it’s not you are exposing all students to become passive smokers along with normalizing a habit which should not be encouraged.
Fatima Mustafa, BSSS’26
Although, I think it shouldn’t be completely banned. Because people will smoke regardless if it’s completely banned since it is banned right now too. Plus, I think if they’re given a designated smoking space then they can smoke. Since there away from those who don’t smoke lowering the risk of passive smoking.
Maarij Imam, BSSS’26
Lack of official areas to smoke
Although there are no official areas for smoking designed by the IBA administration, previously an unofficial smoking area behind the Aman CED building remained. Now a spot is present behind the Students Centre.
Finding a Middle Ground
Therefore, creating Designated Smoking Areas in campus away from populated areas can minimize exposure to secondhand smoke. This also helps in providing a suitable space for smokers. These designated zones are currently present in universities in Pakistan, including LUMS. These smoking areas can have proper ventilation. Efforts to maintain cleanliness and ensure the disposal of cigarette butts in designated containers should ensue. Moreover, these zones would provide a space for smokers while ensuring minimal exposure to secondhand smoke for others. Such an approach aims to strike a balance between individual rights and the well-being of the entire campus community.
Further, it would be effective if the administration considers policies which strike a balance. So, personal freedom and the well-being of the community can be considered. Lastly, A gradual ‘phase-out’ approach can also initiate in campuses. Especially, In collaboration with the mental health support staff to offer support and resources for smokers who wish to quit.
Conclusion
Finally, the question should smoking should be allowed on campus? is a multifaceted issue. Whilst, personal freedom is important, it is crucial to consider the health and well-being of the entire campus community.
To conclude, the campus environment should prioritize the overall health and well-being of its members. Additionally, efforts to discourage imitative smoking in friend circles, and introducing Designated Smoking Areas are a good start to achieving middle ground in this debate.
