One-day training on the implementation of Tobacco Free Educational Institutions (ToFEI) guidelines for teachers and officers from the police and education department was organized by District Tobacco Control Cell Mon on 15th November 2022 at DRDA Conference Hall Mon.

Dr. Amenla, Jr. Dental Specialist, District hospital Mon highlighted the harmful effects of tobacco consumption. She spoke about passive and thirdhand smoking. She also highlighted the effects of betel nuts. She said the use of betel nuts increases the risk of cancer, especially mouth cancer.

E. Nyeamying Konyak, District Consultant, DTCC Mon briefed the participants about the guidelines of ToFEI. Speaking on the topic, she emphasized the role of the school management and authorities in the effective implementation of ToFEI guidelines. She also highlighted the provisions of COTPA 2003 concerning the educational institution and its penalties. E. Nyeamying Konyak also introduced Tobacco Free App to the participants. Through this app, the educational institution may use a self-evaluation scorecard to declare the school tobacco-free and can also report a violation of COTPA 2003.

Bejem, AEO, DEO Office Mon in her concluding remark encouraged the participants to share their learnings from the training with others at their respective schools. She also urged the school management to ensure that no shops should sell tobacco products near 100 yards of the educational institution.

The programme was chaired by Kenie Thong, Counselor District Hospital Mon.

 (Renbenthung, IA Mon)