Photographs of schoolchildren with cigarettes at school gates have become the subject of a public scandal

In Lefkosha, a discussion erupted on social media after photographs were published showing schoolchildren smoking right in front of school entrances. The photos were taken by photojournalist Doan Samer, who emphasized that this phenomenon is becoming increasingly widespread while remaining largely unnoticed by adults and authorities.

According to him, the main problem lies not only with the teenagers themselves but also with the inaction of those around them. Despite existing prohibitions and the presence of police near schools, 14–16-year-olds freely take out cigarettes and smoke in full view of everyone. Samer blames the situation on sellers who sell tobacco products to minors without hindrance, as well as indifferent adults who do not respond to what is happening.

The journalist noted that smoking is not just a harmful habit. In his opinion, it often becomes the first step toward more serious addictions, including drugs. He stressed that starting to smoke at an early age poses a threat to adolescents' health and forms a dangerous behavior pattern capable of leading to new problems in the future.

As measures to combat the situation, Samer suggested declaring school territories completely tobacco-free zones, strengthening control over the sale of cigarettes to minors, and introducing a “zero-tolerance” principle for such violations. He also called for cooperation among parents, teachers, unions, the Ministry of Education, and the police so that existing prohibitions actually work in practice rather than remaining mere formalities.