Nearly 20,000 Abu Dhabi Students Champion Tobacco Awareness Through Creative Peer Campaigns
A landmark youth-led initiative has seen students across 96 schools produce original content to combat nicotine and tobacco use, transforming health messaging through authentic peer influence.
More than 19,600 students across Abu Dhabi’s schools have taken the lead in raising awareness about the dangers of tobacco and nicotine products, crafting 346 original creative works that speak directly to their peers. Through the “Youth Voices for a Tobacco-Free Future” initiative, students have produced short videos, podcasts, digital designs and social media content that reflect their own perspectives and understanding of these health risks.
Organised by the Abu Dhabi Public Health Centre, the programme represents a significant departure from conventional health communication approaches. Rather than imposing top-down messaging, it empowers young people to become advocates, allowing them to shape their own narratives and influence their school communities through authentic voices they recognise and trust.
Students participating in the initiative have expressed the profound impact of their involvement. Mohammed Asaad Fathi Alnahhhal from Ibn Sina School reflected on how the experience deepened his understanding of smoking’s harmful effects and the value of making healthy choices early in life. Similarly, Abdulrhman Faisal Saleh Ahmed from Al Falah Private Academy highlighted how creating original content demonstrated the power of positive messaging in building healthier communities.
Dr. Omniyat Al Hajeri, Executive Director of Community Health at the Abu Dhabi Public Health Centre, emphasised the psychological foundation underpinning this approach. Peer influence has long been recognised as a primary driver of adolescent behaviour, and by channelling this natural dynamic constructively, the initiative transforms students into health advocates within their own circles. “This approach makes critical health information more personal and positions youth as key contributors to building a more resilient, health-conscious generation throughout Abu Dhabi,” Dr. Al Hajeri explained.
The initiative culminated in a recognition ceremony celebrating the most impactful student contributions. Entries were evaluated based on creative excellence, message strength, and demonstrated peer influence and reach, with winning submissions set to be shared across the Abu Dhabi Public Health Centre’s official media channels and social platforms.
This peer-driven model underscores a broader commitment within Abu Dhabi’s public health strategy to foster sustainable behaviour change by positioning young people as central partners in community wellbeing efforts, aligned with national objectives to reduce tobacco and nicotine product uptake.
Source: WAM