Primary school students are reportedly engaging in the use and sale of methamphetamine, as highlighted by the principal of Natabua High School, Virendra Sharma, during a recent public consultation in Lautoka. Sharma emphasized the critical need for teachers to enhance their skills in managing student behavior, proposing that all educators should receive basic counseling training before entering the classroom. He suggested that this proactive approach could help address issues connected to student behavioral problems, possibly reducing the cases that escalate to the attention of specialized counselors.
In connection with these alarming trends, the National Substance Abuse Advisory Council (NSAAC) has indicated a troubling rise in drug-related incidents among students, with over 3,000 documented cases last year. There is a pressing need for schools to implement targeted interventions, including the establishment of school-based counseling hubs. Such initiatives would not only aim to address substance use but also emphasize mental health support and better educator resources.
This increasing incidence of drug abuse among school-aged children has raised significant concerns among parents and educational authorities alike, who fear the long-term implications on students’ well-being and the overall educational environment. Teacher unions have reported a growing number of occurrences where students appear under the influence during school hours, stressing the urgent need for improved preventive measures.
As discussions continue about how to tackle this escalating issue, authorities are advocating for closer collaboration between educators, parents, and counselors. Engaging families in preventative discussions regarding substance abuse could foster a more supportive atmosphere for students. With comprehensive strategies in place, there’s hope for a safer and more educationally nurturing environment that addresses the complex challenges posed by substance abuse in schools.
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