The International Day Against Drug Abuse reminds us that addiction is more than a health issue - it is a societal challenge that affects families, education, and quality of life. Lasting solutions begin with prevention, and prevention begins with evidence - based knowledge.

The Dr. Manal Fakeeh Scientific Chair for Studies in Substance Use, Addiction Management and Rehabilitation at Fakeeh College of Medical Sciences is dedicated to advancing research, innovation, education, and community partnerships to support addiction prevention and improve rehabilitation outcomes.

Through initiatives such as the Student Counselor Workshop , which strengthens early prevention efforts in schools, and the Jeddah Hackathon 2026: Towards a Drug-Free Future, which encourages innovative community-driven solutions, the Chair transforms research into meaningful action. It also embraces artificial intelligence to enhance patient education, continuity of care, and the quality of rehabilitation services.

On this global occasion, the Chair reaffirms that investing in research, innovation, and education is essential to building healthier communities. By turning knowledge into action, we can create sustainable solutions and a future where prevention is a shared responsibility.