Under the patronage of Professor Dr. Wahid Mahmoud Al-Ibrahimi, President of Mosul University, and the supervision of Professor Dr. Nibras Younis Al-Murad, Dean of the College of Physical Education and Sports Sciences, the University Counseling and Psychological Guidance Department, in collaboration with the Continuing Education Unit, organized the annual conference titled “Sport as a Shield for Youth Against Addiction” on Sunday, November 16, 2025. This event reaffirmed the university’s role in raising societal awareness and protecting youth from behavioral risks.

The opening session was attended by prominent academic and scientific figures, and began with the recitation of verses from the Quran, the national anthem, and a recitation of Surat Al-Fatiha in honor of the martyrs of Iraq. The Dean of the College gave a speech highlighting the importance of sports as an effective preventive tool in protecting youth from the scourge of addiction. This was followed by a speech from Dr. Nagham Mahmoud Mohammed Saleh, Head of the University Counseling and Psychological Guidance Department, and a screening of an awareness film titled “Addiction and Treatment Through Sports Training”, which highlighted the relationship between physical activity and mental health.

The first day concluded with the opening of a comprehensive awareness exhibition focused on the dangers of drug abuse and ways to prevent it, with significant interaction from students and participants. This conference is part of the university’s efforts to foster a healthy campus environment and reinforce the role of sports in addressing the social challenges targeting youth.