Wednesday, 23rd September 2026

Riphah International University, in collaboration with PANAH Youth Club and the Riphah Institute of Public Policy (RIPP), organized an awareness session titled “Empowering Youth, Transforming Health” at the University’s G-7 Campus, Islamabad, on September 23, 2026. The session focused on public health, nutrition awareness, and the adoption of Front-of-Pack Warning Labels (FOPWLs) on ultra-processed foods.

The session aimed to educate students and young people about FOPWLs and their potential role in reducing the burden of Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs) in Pakistan. Discussions highlighted the importance of informed food choices, effective food labelling, and greater public awareness regarding nutrition and preventive health.

Raising Awareness About Healthy Food Choices

The session addressed growing public-health concerns associated with diet-related conditions, including heart disease, diabetes, obesity, and other NCDs. Particular attention was given to the increasing consumption of ultra-processed foods containing excessive amounts of sugar, sodium, and unhealthy fats.

Participants were introduced to Front-of-Pack Warning Labels as a means of providing simple and visible information about excessive levels of critical nutrients in packaged food products. The session emphasized that greater awareness of food labels can help consumers make more informed and healthier choices.

Engaging Youth in Public Health Awareness

During the session, examples of commonly consumed packaged products were used to demonstrate how warning labels can communicate excessive levels of critical nutrients in an accessible manner. The discussion also explored the relationship between unhealthy dietary patterns and health risks, including obesity, diabetes, and cardiovascular diseases.

Students actively engaged with the speakers and gained insights into the significance of nutrition-related public policy. The session also encouraged participants to recognize their role in promoting health awareness within their communities and becoming more informed and active contributors to discussions surrounding public health and preventive healthcare.

Promoting Informed and Preventive Health Practices

The awareness session enhanced participants’ understanding of the purpose and significance of FOPWLs, the importance of reading food labels before purchasing packaged foods, and the health risks associated with excessive sugar, sodium, and unhealthy fats.

It also highlighted the role of preventive health measures in reducing NCDs and emphasized the importance of youth participation in health advocacy and awareness campaigns.

Empowering Youth for a Healthier Future

The “Empowering Youth, Transforming Health” session provided a meaningful platform connecting youth engagement, public health awareness, nutrition, and policy advocacy. It contributed to an informative environment where students could explore the importance of healthier food choices and understand the role of Front-of-Pack Warning Labels in supporting informed decision-making.

The session concluded with a strong public-health message:

“BE SMART: CHOOSE WATER. PROTECT YOUR HEART.”

The initiative reinforced the importance of building a culture of health awareness, informed decision-making, and meaningful youth engagement in Pakistan.