Anti-Smoking Policy

1. Title

University of Mosul Anti-Smoking Policy

2. Purpose / Objective

The University of Mosul is committed to fostering a healthy campus environment free from the harms of smoking, grounded in the belief that individual well-being is a cornerstone for achieving academic and educational excellence. The purpose of this policy is not only to limit smoking within the campus but also to contribute to raising social awareness of its health, social, and economic risks. Moreover, it seeks to encourage students and staff to quit smoking, enabling them to serve as role models for future generations.

3. Scope

This policy applies to all members of the university community—faculty, staff, and students—as well as contractors and visitors. Its scope extends to all university facilities, administrative offices, classrooms, laboratories, and university-owned vehicles, in addition to any events or activities organized under the University’s name.

4. Principles / Commitments

  • The University is committed to providing a clean and safe environment that protects non-smokers from both direct and indirect health risks.

  • Strict compliance with national legislation on anti-smoking regulations.

  • Promoting awareness of the physical, psychological, and environmental impacts of smoking.

  • Adopting a humane approach that emphasizes support and persuasion over punishment alone, while offering opportunities for assistance and cessation programs.

5. Procedures / Implementation Mechanisms

  • Smoking is strictly prohibited inside university buildings, classrooms, laboratories, and official vehicles.

  • Establishing designated smoke-free zones, clearly marked across the campus.

  • Utilizing media and educational tools (posters, awareness campaigns, workshops) to disseminate knowledge on the health and environmental hazards of smoking.

  • Organizing smoking cessation programs in collaboration with health centers and specialized institutions.

  • Imposing fines or disciplinary measures on violators, in accordance with national laws.

  • Issuing guidance manuals outlining methods and programs designed to support compliance.

6. Responsibilities

  • The University Presidency holds the highest authority in approving and overseeing the implementation of this policy.

  • Health and legal units are responsible for monitoring violations and receiving reports.

  • Department heads and administrative managers are accountable for daily enforcement of the policy within their areas.

  • Every member of the university community bears personal responsibility for respecting the policy and contributing to the promotion of a positive health culture.

7. Monitoring and Evaluation

  • Conducting annual surveys to assess compliance levels and the policy’s positive impact.

  • Preparing periodic reports on violations and actions taken, with transparent summaries made public.

  • Evaluating the effectiveness of awareness campaigns and cessation programs in influencing student and staff behavior.

8. Periodic Review

The policy will be reviewed every two years, or as needed, to ensure alignment with evolving health and legal standards and with global best practices in tobacco control.

9. Link to Global Goals

This policy directly supports:

  • Goal 3: Good Health and Well-Being, by creating a smoke-free campus and protecting individuals from smoking-related diseases.

  • Goal 12: Responsible Consumption and Production, by reducing the use of products harmful to both health and the environment.

Approved by: Presidency of the University of Mosul.

Last updated: 24-12-2024.