Archives

'Let's talk about drugs'

Message by Tay Bian How, Director of the Colombo Plan Drug Advisory Programme on the "International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking" 26th June 2003.

The theme for this year's commemoration of the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking', which falls on 26th June 2003, is 'Let's talk about drugs'. As we face many challenges to eliminate this deadly menace, the theme is extremely appropriate for all segments of the society to renew their commitments and be proactive in efforts in insulating individuals, schools, workplaces and community from the scourge of drugs.

The Colombo Plan, the oldest intergovernmental organization for human resource development and south-south cooperation, which has a membership of 26 countries in the Asia Pacific region, through its Drug Advisory Programme (DAP) advocates a balanced approach in combating the drug problem in the region.

In drug demand reduction efforts, it is imperative for all segments of the society to implement a comprehensive strategy, which includes:

* Preventive drug education programme, especially the provision of life skills to schoolchildren;

* Media advocacy campaigns to highlight the dangers and consequences of drug abuse in the community;

* Drug free workplace programme for businesses and public corporations to ensure a safe working environment and a productive workforce;

* Community based prevention programmes, particularly enhancing the role of families in drug abuse prevention and development of family support groups for recovering persons in their reintegration into mainstream society; * GOs and NGOs providing healthy alternatives for youth; and

* Integration of spirituality into drug prevention programmes to strengthen the beliefs and values of younger generation.

Thus, it is timely that all segments of the society should start talking about drugs, particularly what (actions) they can do to stop this deadly menace, as drug abuse can be prevented.

www.crescat.com

News | Business | Features | Editorial | Security
Politics | World | Letters | Sports | Obituaries

Produced by Lake House
Copyright © 2003 The Associated Newspapers of Ceylon Ltd.
Comments and suggestions to :Web Manager