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{
    "id": 1498660,
    "url": "https://info.mzalendo.com/api/v0.1/hansard/entries/1498660/?format=api",
    "text_counter": 254,
    "type": "speech",
    "speaker_name": "Mr Julius Migos Ogamba",
    "speaker_title": "The Cabinet Secretary for Education",
    "speaker": null,
    "content": "Secondly, we also have awareness and sensitisation campaigns. The curriculum includes lessons on the dangers of alcohol and drug abuse, helping students to develop resilience and decision-making skills to avoid those substances. The Ministry also collaborates with organisations such as the National Authority for the Campaign Against Alcohol and Drug Abuse (NACADA) to raise awareness about the effects of substance abuse. Thirdly, we also have guidance and counselling programmes in schools. Schools are mandated to establish or enhance counselling departments with trained teachers who can guide personal and social challenges, including substance abuse. Peer educators are also trained to support fellow students by sharing knowledge and experience, and creating a supportive environment to resist peer pressure. There are also collaborative efforts with the law enforcement agencies. Schools work with the local police to ensure rapid responses to incidents involving illegal substances, including arrests of individuals who are supplying drugs to students. We also coordinate efforts between schools, law enforcement and NACADA to identify and dismantle supply networks that are targeting schools. We also have another programme, the Enhancement of Monitoring and Evaluation through our field officers. We undertake regular assessments in schools to evaluate risks and vulnerabilities that are related to substance abuse with actionable recommendations for improvement. The Ministry also has a policy of ensuring that schools encourage students to participate in sports, drama, music and other extra-curricular activities that provide constructive alternatives to drug use. Emphasis is placed on nurturing students’ talents and interests, keeping them motivated and less likely to engage in unhealthy behaviour. I submit."
}