Anti-drug abuse campaign launched

NYARUGURU – Drug abuse among school going students is on the rise, education experts have warned.This was revealed by Clementine Niyigena, the director of studies at Nyamvumba Secondary School in Mata sector during a the launch of a campaign against drug abuse in Nyaruguru district recently.“School children are increasingly indulging in drug abuse,” she said.“Recently, two students at my school were arrested after being caught red-handed smoking marijuana on the campus. A third escaped while five others are currently being investigated. The problem is getting worse.Niyigena observed that some ill-intentioned individuals might be smuggling thedrugs into schools which is affecting the performance of students.She cautioned parents and educators to keep an eye on children and provide necessary basic education and guidance to help them grow into responsible people.Nyaruguru District Mayor, Francois Habitegeko, added that more efforts were needed to tackle the issue among the youth. “The war on drug abuse among the youth is not a one-way endeavour, but a collective effort from all stake holders. People are investing millions of francs in drugs, so we must invest a lot more to defeat them,” he said.Drug consumption has been associated with various crimes across the country, including murder, child abuse, rape and other forms of violence.It is also generally regarded as a serious challenge to the intellectual and socio-economic development of the youth and that of the country in general. Common drugs that the youth consume include marijuana and various illicit locally brewed beverages.The anti-drug campaign launch was attended by grassroots authorities, church leaders, school heads and security officials.At the event, a seven-member district committee to coordinate the efforts totackle the problem was elected. It will have, among other responsibilities, overseeing the establishment of anti-drug clubs in schools and coordinate all initiatives to address the issue.Philbert Uwamahoro, the coordinator of the committee, told The New Times that the establishment of anti-drug clubs in schools will help sensitise the youth on the dangers of drug abuse.“Of course it will demand a lot of combined efforts, but with commitment and devotion, we shall manage,” Uwamahoro, who is also the head teacher of Groupe Scolaire Ruramba, said.

National

Anti-drug abuse campaign launched