The Pharmacy Techniques Department at the Technical Institute/Kufa successfully concluded its second annual scientific festival, held in conjunction with the Global Week for Antibiotic Awareness.
In collaboration with the Media and Government Communication Division, the festival was themed:
“Preventive Balance Between Antibiotic Use and Alternatives”
This festival served as a crucial awareness initiative, focusing on the dangers of antibiotic overuse and promoting the enhancement of the immune system as the first line of defense.
The event featured an engaging program attended by the Assistant Dean for Administrative and Financial Affairs, department heads, institute staff, and a group of students. It began with the recitation of verses from the Holy Quran and the national anthem.
Pharmacist Assistant Lecturer. Ala Sadiq Hassan delivered a preventive message during the festival, emphasizing simple yet effective lifestyle practices. These included boosting immunity through a healthy diet rich in vitamins, consuming nutritious foods and natural juices, exercising, and ensuring adequate sleep.
This was followed by an insightful lecture from Professor Dr. Iyad Ali Hussein (a faculty member at the Islamic University) titled “Antibiotics and Available Alternatives.”
He stressed the importance of responsible antibiotic use, highlighting that they should only be used with a prescription when truly necessary and that it is crucial to adhere strictly to the prescribed dosage and duration. He warned against the insistence on requesting antibiotics without necessity or sharing them with others.
Professor Dr. Iyad Ali was honored with a certificate of appreciation from the institute’s administration, presented by Assistant Dean Assistant Professor Kazem Khayoun, in recognition of his valuable contributions during the lecture.
Various student activities took place in the department, including interactive workshops on enhancing immunity and natural alternatives. One notable activity was a scientific analysis of vitamin and mineral content in common foods and plants (such as oranges, carrots, peppers, pomegranates, and herbs) to explain the role of these natural alternatives in boosting immunity and preventing diseases before infection occurs.
The festival also saw the formation of student groups dedicated to directly raising awareness about the risks and uses of antibiotics, making it a successful scientific and educational platform that contributed to fostering a responsible health culture.
