More than 3,000 students were referred from schools to the National Substance Abuse Advisory Council last year, according to Minister for Education Aseri Radrodro. This prompted the ministry to consider using drug testing kits in schools with assistance from other ministries and departments.
Radrodro mentioned that an existing in-house policy addresses students found with drugs, and those who violate the policy are referred to the substance abuse center. He stated that over 3,000 students were taken to the substance abuse center last year.
The minister expressed hope that the policy would reduce the number of students abusing drugs. He also highlighted the exploration of drug testing kits in schools in collaboration with various ministries and departments as a future option to minimize drug problems in educational institutions.
As the second term school holiday nears, Radrodro urged students, teachers, stakeholders, and parents to act responsibly and keep students away from drugs. He advised students to avoid drug use, emphasizing that a drug-free life promises a bright future. He also reminded schools, teachers, stakeholders, and parents of their crucial role in ensuring that schools remain drug-free.