THE Kingsburgh Child and Family Welfare, along with a guest speaker, recently held a drug awareness programme for learners at Illovo Primary School.
The welfare’s social worker, Sandra Govender, said it was imperative that the learners acquire information on drug abuse, dependency thereof and its effects.
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“There is a concern for young people. Alcohol and drugs (substance abuse) are significant barriers to both teaching and learning. Abuse of these substances has been linked to academic difficulties, absenteeism, and drop-out from schooling which negatively impacts family life,” she said.
Govender said drugs are also associated with a host of high-risk behaviours, including unprotected sex, crime and violence, traffic accidents and mental and physical health problems. “It is for these reasons that we at Welfare conducted this programme. We believe prevention is better than cure,” she said.
To raise awareness about the impact of alcohol and drug abuse, the welfare invited guest speaker Pastor Keith Naidoo, who is a recovered addict. Naidoo, who recently celebrated 20 years of sobriety, shared his lived experiences. He warned the boys and girls that drugs can and will destroy lives and relationships, and reminded them that they have the right to say no.
Govender said the focus was to address learners because of their heightened vulnerability to alcohol and drug abuse during the transition from primary to secondary school. “In addition, peer pressure also increases during this transitional period. The welfare is here to render support, counselling and referrals to rehabilitation centres,” she said.
For more information, contact the Kingsburgh Child and Family Welfare on 031 916 2274 or at admin@kingsburghwelfare.org.za
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