The Ministry of Education is initiating psychosocial support training for child protection officers in schools, alongside offering counseling for students struggling with drug abuse, according to Permanent Secretary Selina Kuruleca.
During a presentation to the Standing Committee on Social Affairs, which evaluated the ministry’s annual reports from 2018 to 2021, Kuruleca emphasized the importance of this training for recovery and healing.
“Psychosocial support can enhance the holistic development of children and adolescents, encompassing physical, emotional, and social growth,” she stated. She noted that this form of support is vital for helping children recover from traumatic experiences by helping them understand their emotional responses through careful observation. It also involves alleviating emotional distress by providing a listening ear, reassurance, and modeling healthy behaviors.
Kuruleca explained that psychosocial support is instrumental in uncovering the various reasons behind a child’s substance use, which may include curiosity, experimentation, or attempts to cope with personal or familial trauma.
Additionally, she addressed the need for school heads to be cautious when dealing with syringes found on school grounds.
“With the increase in the circulation of drugs such as methamphetamine and cocaine, which are often administered via syringes, all heads of schools have been reminded to manage these items with utmost care,” she added.