While health is the theme of this year's world anti drug campaign, to be observed on International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking on June 26, the Emirates Motor Sports Federation (EMSF) in collaboration with Dubai Police will stress on family and happiness coupled with sport to drive home the message over a three-day period starting June 24 at Dubai Festival City.
Internationally, the world anti narcotics day is being held under the auspices of the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime while in Dubai the Dubai Police General Directorate of Anti Narcotics will spearhead the campaign under the slogan "My Family, My Happiness."
Like past years, the EMSF will once again join hands with Dubai Police to promote sports as a means of leading a healthy and competitive life with the aim of informing the public, particularly young people, about the harmful effects that drugs under international control can have on their health.
In order to drive home its message, the EMSF in collaboration with Dubai Police is organizing a three-day event from June 24-26 at Dubai Festival City where the highlight will be a Motocross competition for bikes and ATVs, and a Modified Cars Show where prizes will be awarded in different categories, including a draw for spectators who participate in the competition voting process.
EMSF General Manager Ahmed Al Sherif has called upon young people, who are twice as likely as adults to take drugs, to protect their health, adding that there are a number of ways that even parents, teachers and individuals can get involved in the campaign, including by spreading the word.
"Moreover, without the youth of today we will not have leaders tomorrow. Which is why institutions, companies and other commercial entities must translate their corporate social responsibility roles into action," Sherif added.
Emirates Driving Institute too has joined hands with the EMSF and will showcase safety demonstrations and its new 'blur vision goggles' to educate the public on the importance of safe driving habits and the effects of driving after taking medication.
Drugs under international control include amphetamine-type stimulants, cannabis, coca/cocaine, hallucinogens, opiates and hypnotic sedatives, all of which have immediate physical effects.
