The National Authority for Campaign Against Alcohol and Drug Abuse (NACADA) is looking forward to partnering with the Ministry of Education to integrate Alcohol and Drug Abuse awareness into the Competency-Based Education (CBE).
Speaking during an interview in Diani, Kwale County, Nacada County Director Eunice Vale said they are planning to have the drug awareness introduced to students to help curb the growing menace among learners.
“As Nacada, we are planning to engage youth on matters of drug abuse awareness through the CBE. In doing so we would have exposed the knowledge at an early age,” she said.
Vale said the initiative seeks to introduce age-appropriate lessons on substance abuse, helping children understand the risks and consequences before they fall victim to peer pressure.
She noted that with the rising cases of drug abuse among school-going youth, particularly in the coastal region, it has become necessary to adopt preventive measures within the education system.
According to Vale, incorporating alcohol and drug abuse programs into the curriculum would also empower teachers and school administrators with relevant knowledge and tools to detect early signs of addiction, intervene appropriately, and guide affected learners.
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“The school principals will be capacity-built on various strategies to prevent and suppress drug supply networks within learning institutions,” she said
She added that Nacada aims to strengthen collaboration between schools and local administrators to dismantle drug supply chains targeting children, saying that they want to build strong support systems within schools, as prevention starts with awareness.
“Nacada has observed worrying trends, with some students accessing hard drugs such as bhang, heroin, and prescription pills within and around learning institutions.” She said
The situation, Vale warned, threatens academic performance, mental health, and the general wellbeing of learners.
She further emphasized that curbing the vice requires a multi-sectoral approach rather than leaving the responsibility solely to schools.
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In addition, Vale noted that Nacada has already rolled out awareness campaigns within the communities, targeting parents, religious and village elders in quest to advocate for a drug-free environment.
She said the community forums and sensitization drives have also been enhanced to ensure young people receive consistent messaging both at home and in school.
She also urged parents to complement the government’s efforts by monitoring the behavior of their children and having open conversations on the dangers of substance abuse.
“Parents must be involved. We cannot win the fight if we ignore the role of families,” she said.
By Mwajabe Omar
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