Parents concerned after reports of drugs found in schools

Parents have raised concerns about the safety and well-being of their children after reports of drugs found in schools in the past few months.

Concerned parents say they value the safety and well-being of their children and they understand the negative impact that drugs can have on their education and their future.

Head of Substance Abuse Advisory Council, Josua Naisele says the Ministry has emphasized the need for collaboration between schools, parents, and law enforcement agencies to combat this problem effectively.

Naisele says the Ministry is urging schools to conduct thorough searches, implement stringent security measures, and maintain open lines of communication with students and parents regarding the dangers of substance abuse.

He adds they will provide support and resources to schools to help them educate students on the risks associated with drugs.

Divisional Police Commander South SSP Wate Vocevoce says they will conduct regular drug awareness programs, promote the importance of a drug-free environment, and work closely with school administrators and parents to ensure the safety and well-being of students.

Vocevoce says 7 cases were reported for the Southern Division from January to August 2023.

The Substance Abuse Advisory Council has recorded 32 drug-associated cases in schools in the first 5 months of this year where 12 cases were related to marijuana, 2 methamphetamine-related cases, 8 suki related, 8 alcohol and 1 glue-related issue.