Drug addiction is a major problem around the world, taking a toll on global health, social and economic functioning. In India, consuming narcotic drugs is fairly widespread among all sections of the population. Adversely affected are young persons, families, workplaces and communities. Some of the social effects of drug use include emotional dysregulation, anti-social behaviours, and poor relationship formation patterns. Economically, individual productivity and potential are critically affected which increases poverty.
To tackle this growing problem, there are constant efforts through awareness and sensitization, drug education. The Salesians of Don Bosco know that Prevention is one of the main components of a health-centred system to address drugs. So, they convened one hundred and seventy-eight students from 12 schools of Ariyalur District who participated in the various cultural competitions at Don Bosco Hr. Sec. School, Varadarajanpet, based on the UNO’s theme for 2023, “People First: stop stigma and Discrimination, strengthen Prevention”. The students participated in speech, drawing, quiz, essay, singing and rangoli competitions.
Father John Dharman SDB, the Director of Don Bosco Jananam, Keeranur, addressed the gathering on the need for constant sensitization of the students and the role of the students in the campaign against drug abuse and illicit trafficking. Mr Dharmaseelan, District Child Protection Office, Ariyalur District, addressed the students on drugs and child safety. Father Francis Gamaliel SDB, the Rector and Correspondent, and Father Sebastian Jacob SDB, the Headmaster, graced the function with their presence. The Salesians from the local community and the staff organized the function. Father Amala Asvin SDB, the Assistant Director, coordinated the day’s programme. Don Bosco Jananam awarded the winners with prizes and certificates. All the students received participation certificates and an eco-friendly cloth bag printed with the theme.
The International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, also known as World Drug Day, is commemorated on June 26 every year, to promote global efforts in eliminating drug abuse. This year World Drug Day’s theme is “People first: Stop stigma and discrimination, strengthen prevention”, and the focus of this year’s campaign was, indeed, to increase awareness regarding the significance of treating individuals who engage in drug use, with empathy and respect.
Sources: Don Bosco South Asia
