Punjab schools will spearhead a year-long campaign against drug abuse, with the state government rolling out a structured programme involving students, teachers, parents and local communities under its ongoing ‘anti-drug’ campaign.
According to the activity calendar issued by the state council of educational research and training (SCERT), schools will organise anti-drug activities throughout the academic year. In August, students will create posters carrying messages against substance abuse, while September will focus on sensitising parents through parent-teacher meetings about the risks of drugs and the importance of early intervention.
Poetry and quiz competitions will be organised in October. From November to February, schools will involve community members, conduct awareness workshops, organise interactive sessions and administer anti-drug pledges during morning assemblies.
Schools have also been directed to establish drug-free clubs, install anonymous tip-off boxes and use a video-based curriculum to educate students about the consequences of substance abuse. They will also be required to maintain a 500m drug-free zone around their premises and periodically report compliance.
More than 21,000 teachers are being equipped with skills to identify early signs of drug abuse and mental-health concerns among students and respond promptly.
{{/usCountry}}More than 21,000 teachers are being equipped with skills to identify early signs of drug abuse and mental-health concerns among students and respond promptly.
{{/usCountry}}Education minister Harjot Singh Bains said the fight against drugs must begin in classrooms, describing education and prevention as the most effective tools to protect young minds.
“School heads and mentors will monitor the activities, maintain records and submit photographic evidence as part of the programme’s monitoring mechanism,” he said.