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 situation led the ministry to consider the use of drug testing kits in schools with the assistance of other ministries and departments.
Mr. Radrodro mentioned that an existing in-house policy addresses students found with drugs, and violators of this policy are referred to the substance abuse center.
“I believe that over 3,000 students were taken to the substance abuse center last calendar year,” Mr. Radrodro said.
“There is a policy in place for handling students found with drugs, which is already implemented in schools, directing these students to the currently operational center.
“We hope that the number of students abusing drugs will decrease now that this policy is in effect.
“We are also discussing and exploring the use of drug testing kits in schools, but this needs to be in collaboration with other ministries and departments.
“This is a consideration for the future. We must improve the management of drug problems in schools.”
As the second term school holiday approaches, Mr. Radrodro urges students, teachers, stakeholders, and parents to take responsibility and ensure students are kept away from drugs.
“I would like to encourage and advise students to avoid drug use.
“You have a long and promising future if you remain drug-free.
“Schools, teachers, stakeholders, and parents must all play a crucial role in keeping drugs out of our school systems.”