More than 3,000 students were referred to the National Substance Abuse Advisory Council last year, according to Education Minister Aseri Radrodro. He stated that this situation has led the ministry to consider the implementation of drug testing kits in schools, in collaboration with other ministries and departments.
Radrodro mentioned that there is an established in-house policy addressing the issue of students found with drugs. Those who violate this policy are sent to the substance abuse center. “I think in the last calendar year, over 3,000 students were taken to the substance abuse center,” he said.
He emphasized that the existing in-house policies regarding drug use among students are already being applied in schools, directing offenders to the operational center. “We hope the number of students engaging in drug abuse will decrease now that we have this policy in place,” Radrodro added.
Furthermore, he noted that the ministry is exploring the future use of drug testing kits in schools as part of ongoing discussions with other relevant ministries and departments. The goal is to minimize drug-related issues within educational institutions.
As the second term school holiday approaches, Radrodro urged students, teachers, stakeholders, and parents to take responsibility for keeping students away from drugs. “I would like to advise school students to avoid drug use. You have a long and promising future ahead of you if you stay drug-free. Schools, teachers, stakeholders, and parents are reminded that we all play a crucial role in keeping our educational systems drug-free.”