On May 28, the Management Development Institute of Singapore in Dushanbe (MDIS Dushanbe) proudly hosted the closing ceremony of the art contest “Youth Against Drugs,” held in honour of Youth Day of Tajikistan, the Day of Drug Control Officers, and International Children’s Day.

The initiative was jointly organised by the Drug Control Agency under the President of the Republic of Tajikistan, the Union of Artists of Tajikistan, and the Children’s Art School under the Department of Culture of Dushanbe. MDIS Dushanbe provided the venue for the event, reaffirming its commitment to fostering young talent and supporting meaningful youth-led initiatives.

More than 60 students from general and specialised educational institutions across Dushanbe took part in the contest. On May 20, their artworks were exhibited outside the Children’s Art School, where the jury—comprising representatives of the organising bodies and faculty from top art institutions—carefully reviewed the entries, interviewed selected artists, and shortlisted the best submissions.

Three students were awarded first, second and third places, while 15 others received Certificates of Recognition from the Drug Control Agency. The Union of Artists of Tajikistan also presented awards to one participant and three teachers. An additional special prize was granted by the Children’s Art School of Dushanbe.

The award ceremony was held in a warm and festive atmosphere at the MDIS Dushanbe Cultural Hall. Representatives of the organising bodies—among them Mr. Dilshod Rustamzoda Barotiyon, Head of the Drug Control Agency Department, and Ms. Nargis Khomidova, Chair of the Union of Artists—congratulated the participants and emphasised the importance of encouraging youth to engage in socially responsible creativity.

The event concluded with a cultural performance by the student ensemble of Music School No. 5 named after Aminjon Shukuhi, delighting the audience with a series of musical pieces.

As part of its long-standing mission, MDIS Dushanbe is proud to support initiatives that promote education, creativity, and healthy lifestyles among young people. We remain committed to serving as a platform for future generations to learn, express themselves, and grow into responsible and empowered members of society.