The Ministry of Education is enhancing its strategies to combat drug use in schools, with a pivotal role assigned to the National Substance Abuse Advisory Council. Acting CEO Josua Naisele highlighted that students have been sneaking banned substances onto school grounds, including alcohol hidden in soft drink bottles and younger students reported using marijuana. Naisele emphasized the importance of parental responsibility, urging guardians to closely monitor their children’s activities both before and after school.
Education Minister Aseri Radrodro has also underscored the shared responsibility among parents, guardians, and local communities in safeguarding students from drug abuse. He indicated that protecting children is not solely the responsibility of teachers or school staff.
This renewed focus comes as the International Day Against Drug Abuse approaches, prompting a call for awareness and education surrounding the risks related to drug use. With the knowledge that drugs like tobacco, suki, and vapes are prevalent in schools, the ministry’s efforts aim to foster a safer environment for students.
Addressing similar past concerns, the Ministry has noted an alarming rise in female students being caught in drug-related incidents, as evidenced by reports of around ten girls referred for such issues this year. Such patterns reflect a broader national concern, necessitating a collective community effort to protect youth and ensure a supportive environment.
The proactive measures taken by the Ministry signal a hopeful shift towards better safeguarding the health and well-being of students, fostering a united front against the challenges of drug use. As parental engagement and community awareness increase, there remains potential for positive change in the approach to youth substance abuse.
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