The Substance Abuse Advisory Council has reported a significant concern regarding drug-related incidents among students, noting 3,041 cases linked to schools in the past year. Chief Executive Josua Naisele highlighted that the most common substances involved were illicit drugs, as well as alcohol and tobacco, whereas marijuana was less frequently reported.
Naisele raised alarms about the vulnerability of students to drug use when outside their schools, especially in the absence of proper guidance and supervision. He underscored the critical need for robust support systems in both homes and educational institutions to safeguard young people from such influences. Highlighting parental involvement, he stated, “When they come back from school, ask them. Because sometimes when we disconnect at home with our children, they are on their own, and sometimes they do things that can harm them.”
He strongly encouraged parents to actively engage with their children, fostering communication and spending quality time together. The importance of feeling valued and supported at home can deter children from seeking affirmation elsewhere. Naisele emphasized that nurturing strong family connections is essential for guiding children toward healthier and safer choices.
This call to action for parental vigilance resonates with a broader trend observed by the Ministry of Education regarding the rise of drug-related incidents among schoolgirls, a demographic traditionally deemed less involved in substance abuse. The Ministry has reported cases where female students were found either possessing drugs or under the influence, a shift from the stereotype of drug use predominantly associated with boys.
The current situation presents a significant opportunity for community engagement, as proactive measures from both parents and schools can create a safe environment conducive to supporting the well-being of youth. The emphasis on communication and awareness can foster a collaborative effort to counteract the influences driving students toward drug use, reinforcing the idea that collective vigilance and action can lead to positive outcomes for the younger generation.
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