The 9^th of April marked the launching of the second poison prevention week at An-Najah National University with the theme “Healthy Life Style”. The Poison Control and Drug Information Center, PCDIC, organized the opening ceremony which was attended by the University President, the Mayor of Nablus, the Director of the Education Department at the Ministry of Education, the Co-coordinator of the Scientific Centers, and the Director of Hospitals. Others in attendance included medical doctors, health teachers, deans of several faculties, directors of research centers, representatives of several public and private institutions, interested private citizens, and university students.
During the opening ceremony, Dr. Suliman Khalil, Co-coordinator of the Scientific Centers, began by mentioning the important role the poison control and drug information center plays in providing services related to poisoning and its prevention. He acknowledged the center’s staff for the excellent work they do. He also thanked PADICO for providing the financial support for the center.
Mrs. Asma Al-sholi, from the Ministry of Education, spoke about the distinguished role the center plays in increasing the awareness of school students and the general public regarding toxins. Dr.  Hasan Fitian from the Ministry of Health talked about the important and critical role that is played by the poison control and drug information center in providing consultation and follow up regarding poisoning.
The Center`s Director, Dr. Ansam Sawalha, spoke about the accomplishments achieved by the center in the previous year which included providing consultation for the treatment of poisoning, scientific research, toxic vigilance, societal partnership in health issues, among others. Dr. Sawalha also spoke about the future goals of the center. Finally, she talked about Poison Prevention Week which was held this year with the theme: “Healthy Life Style”.  This theme is consistent with the objective of the World Health Organization to invest in health.
Mr. Saed Zyoud, a member of the poison control and drug information center, PCDIC, and the ceremony MC, talked about the role of the center in providing services to the general public and to the effort invested in raising the awareness of Palestinians regarding toxins. He also spoke about arrangements which were made to allow students to visit the center this week. Mr. Zyoud also talked about the importance of collaboration in achieving a high standard of health care.
In the end, the exhibition for Poison Prevention Week was opened and those in attendance visited with the pharmacy students and listened to their explanations of the scientific materials which were presented. Brochures were also given to visitors.