The First Scientific Conference of the Faculty of Medical Sciences at Thamar University Launches to Address the Challenges of Addiction
□ Thamar University Media / Jamal Al-Bahri / Jumad Al-Awwal 28, 1447. November 19, 2025
■ Palestine Conference Hall at Thamar University witnessed the launch this morning of the “First Scientific Conference to Address the Challenges of Addiction in Yemeni Society.” The conference was attended by a large and engaged audience, reflecting a genuine understanding of the danger addiction poses to the social fabric. The conference opened with a recitation from the Holy Quran, followed by the national anthem and then welcoming remarks from the Conference Chair, the Ministry, and the Local Authority.
The University Rector, Professor Dr. Mohammed Al-Haifi, then took the podium to commend the national and scientific efforts that led to this event. He emphasized that the university was not merely an academic institution, but rather a national initiative contributing to addressing a problem that transcends being simply a medical or educational issue. It is a social scourge that requires everyone's participation within a comprehensive framework that begins with prevention and extends to rehabilitation and treatment.
In his address, the Governor Mohammed Mohammed Al-Bakhiti, the head of the local council, pointed out that the spread of drugs is no longer merely a local phenomenon, but has been used as a weapon to subjugate free peoples. He recalled how imperialist powers historically used the opium trade against various nations, noting that Yemen is currently suffering from a similar scheme that has exploited the state of war, aggression and blockade to spread this scourge. He added that the university initiated this step at a critical time because the people of Yemen deserve genuine protection from falling into an abyss with no bottom.
Then, Deputy Minister of Education and Scientific Research, Dr. Hatem Al-Duais, delivered a speech on behalf of the Minister of Education and Scientific Research, Mr. Hassan Al-Saadi, expressing the Ministry's appreciation for this vital event. He indicated that it represents a major step towards addressing the issue of addiction, which has begun to spread due to foreign influence and conspiracies. He called on other universities to adopt these initiatives and transform their recommendations into practical implementation programs.
In his address, the conference chairman, Dr. Adel Emran addressed the dimensions of dealing with addiction as a national and scientific mission, emphasizing that the conference was not merely an academic event, but a platform of hope for every Yemeni family and every young man and woman and that knowledge is our strongest weapon in this critical battle.
The conference included important scientific sessions covering medical, neurological, psychological and social aspects. It also featured a medical and student exhibition, along with supporting companies, highlighting the values of interaction and integration among various institutions. The conference also included an exhibition by the University's Center for Medicine and Psychological Counseling, diverse student presentations in the fields of medicine and psychological counseling, an important awareness exhibition and a booth for the governorate's anti-narcotics company.
The conference organizers stressed that the ultimate goal is to raise community awareness and present scientific solutions to combat addiction. They called for joint cooperation between health, educational, media and family institutions within a comprehensive national vision aimed at protecting the nation's youth and repairing the immediate and future damage resulting from the spread of this scourge.
The conference concluded by emphasizing that addiction is not an escape from reality, but rather a fall into an abyss with no bottom, and that willpower and determination can restore a person's life. The message was clear to all attendees to not be a slave to what is killing you and be free, even if freedom is painful.
The conference was attended by a number of prominent figures from within and outside the governorate, including Professor Dr. Abdulkafi Al-Rifai, the Vice-Rector of the University for Student Affairs, Professor Dr. Abdulkarim Zabiba, the Vice-Rector of the University for Graduate Studies and Scientific Research, Professor Dr. Adel Abdulghani Al-Ansi, the Vice-Rector of the University for Academic Affairs, the Judge Mr. Mujahid Al-Emadi, the Head of the Court of Appeals in Dhamar Governorate, Dr. Zaid Al-Hadour, the Undersecretary of the Ministry of Education, Mr. Ahmed Ali Al-Thurani, the Deputy Governor of Dhamar, and Dr. Mohammed Hutram, the General Secretary of the University.
Approximately 35 participants from outside the governorate presented scientific research in various disciplines, and 11 participants from different governorates presented scientific posters. The total attendance was around 1,500 people. LThe conference featured 700 student projects in an exhibition showcasing various models and paintings that highlighted the conference's main objectives. The exhibition also included participation from companies from different governorates and attracted approximately 1,500 visitors from universities and various regions.