Policy and Actions Against Smoking
At BSRU, we are deeply committed to advancing health and well-being by establishing policies and implementing actions that focus on creating a smoke-free campus and a healthier community. In alignment with Sustainable Development Goal 3, we actively work to reduce the negative impacts of smoking and promote a tobacco-free lifestyle within our university and beyond. Our comprehensive anti-smoking efforts involve policies, collaborations, and educational programs aimed at protecting our students, staff, and community from the harmful effects of tobacco.
University Regulations on Smoking
According to BSRU’s regulations, students are required to maintain responsible behavior in all aspects, which includes refraining from smoking cigarettes, e-cigarettes, and hookahs, as well as consuming alcohol or other intoxicants within the university premises (Article 9, Section 12.3, page 2). Violations of these regulations are addressed through disciplinary actions as per university policy, reinforcing our commitment to a clean, safe, and supportive learning environment.
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Declaration of Cooperation for a Smoke-Free Society
In May 2022, BSRU joined other public health organizations in Thailand by signing the Declaration of Cooperation for a Smoke-Free Thai Society.
Key actions stemming from this agreement include:
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Curriculum Integration: Educational content on the health impacts of tobacco and quitting methods has been integrated into the undergraduate programs.
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Student Surveys: Regular surveys are conducted to assess tobacco consumption among students.
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Support for Quitting: A support system is available for students who wish to quit smoking. For those struggling, there is a strict prohibition against using tobacco products on campus.
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Smoke-Free Zones: The entire BSRU campus is designated as a smoke-free zone.
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Student Engagement: Activities related to tobacco control are encouraged to raise awareness and promote student participation.
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No Tobacco Funding: The university refuses any funding or support from tobacco-related industries, adhering strictly to the Tobacco Product Control Act of 2017.
Collaborative Anti-Smoking Campaigns
BSRU actively collaborates with community partners to promote awareness and prevent smoking:
No Alcohol in Public Spaces Campaign (September 15, 2023)
BSRU joined forces with the Thonburi District Office, Bang Yi Ruea Police Station, Dhonburi Rajabhat University, and local communities in a campaign to ban alcohol consumption in public areas. The campaign addressed issues of violence, littering, and other community challenges linked to alcohol use and smoking in public spaces. Students, faculty, and community members received information on the hazards of alcohol and tobacco use, aiming to reduce public health risks in shared spaces.
World No Tobacco Day Event (May 31, 2023)
In observance of World No Tobacco Day, BSRU, in collaboration with the Thonburi District Office, the Health Service Center, and Dhonburi Rajabhat University, held an event focused on the dangers of cigarette and e-cigarette use. The event provided educational materials to students and staff, emphasizing the health risks of active smoking as well as secondhand and thirdhand smoke. Participants were encouraged to recognize the serious health consequences of tobacco use, particularly the heightened risk of cancer.
Preventing New Smokers Workshop (May 20, 2023)
The Student Affairs Division, along with BSRU’s volunteer student networks and the “To Be Number One” program, conducted a workshop to address the issue of tobacco and e-cigarette use on campus. Led by experts from the Ministry of Public Health, the event provided insights into tobacco-related laws and developed proactive strategies to curb smoking among students. This initiative integrates anti-smoking education into the wider university community, fostering an environment of health consciousness and responsible behavior.
Through these programs and partnerships, BSRU aims to create a campus environment where students and staff are well-informed about the risks associated with tobacco and supported in making healthy lifestyle choices. Our collective efforts reinforce our dedication to SDG 3, contributing to a smoke-free society and a healthier future for everyone.
