Students call for alcohol sales ban

University students from the Youth Network Against New Drinkers yesterday called for a ban on alcohol sales near academic institutions.

Teerapat Kahawong, co-leader of the network, submitted a petition to Education Minister Chaturon Chaisaeng, via his adviser Thanesh Charoenmuang, urging the minister to make universities alcohol-free.

He said many shops and pubs located near campuses are selling alcohol to students under the legal drinking age.

The students also handed over a video showing alcohol allegedly being sold to underage students.

They demanded the ministry ban the sale of alcohol within 300 metres of an academic institution. ‘‘The sale of alcohol around college areas has become widespread and causes many problems such as accidents and crimes,’’ Mr Teerapat said.