Affordability and accessibility to illegal drugs have become significant issues among youths, with many resorting to pooling their resources to buy substances. This alarming trend was highlighted by Josua Nasele, a representative of the Substance Abuse Advisory Council (SAAC), during his presentation at the recent Fiji Teachers Registration Authority (FHTRA) and Ministry of Education Congress held at the Sofitel Fiji Resort and Spa in Nadi.
Nasele emphasized that the rise in drug use is partly driven by financial strategies among young people, noting how they combine funds to afford expensive drugs like methamphetamine. For instance, if a sachet of meth costs $50, several youths may contribute amounts as small as $5 or $10 to share the purchase.
He also highlighted the impact of technology, stating that students are utilizing mobile phones to facilitate communication not only among themselves but also with drug dealers, making access to these substances easier than ever. Additionally, the normalization of substance use in families was pointed out, particularly concerning locally available drugs such as suki, which parents may use openly in front of their children. This behavior can influence kids to perceive drug use as an acceptable norm.
In response to this growing issue, Nasele mentioned that the SAAC is collaborating with the Ministry of Education to bolster support systems in schools by providing a greater number of professional counselors. The objective is to ensure that larger schools have at least one full-time counselor dedicated to helping students navigate these challenges.
This issue underlines the urgent need for community awareness and support to combat drug abuse among youths. The involvement of educational institutions in providing counseling services reflects a proactive approach to addressing these concerns. With concerted efforts and the right resources, there is hope for reducing substance abuse and promoting healthier lifestyles among young individuals.
In summary, addressing the complex issue of drug accessibility and use among youth requires collaboration between families, schools, and community resources, reinforcing the positive prospect of a more educated and health-conscious generation.
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