Awareness campaign on 'Combat against drugs' begins
Source: The Sangai Express
Senapati, October 26 2023:
In light of the prevailing situation, with the sudden spike in the number of drug abusers, especially among students and underaged children in Senapati district, the Senapati District Students' Association (SDSA) has initiated an intensive awareness campaign, 'Combat Against Drugs' under the theme "Say No To Drugs: Building a Drug-Free District" .
During this campaign, SDSA will conduct a series of seminars in different colleges in the district, apart from organising public awareness activities such as public rally, a mini-marathon, poster campaigns etc.
To kick start the campaign, a seminar was conducted yesterday at the auditorium of Don Bosco College (Autonomous), Maram.
The seminar was conducted in collaboration with Senapati Police and with the support of the District Administration, with CMTV as the campaign's media partner.
The seminar was attended by students of the college, all SDSA executives and different communities' student leaders.
The event was led by Rhoda, women coordinator of SDSA, as the moderator, and chaired by Robin Kangba, vice-president of the apex student body, who is also the convenor for the said campaign.
Rev Fr Dr KO Sebastian, Principal of Don Bosco College Maram, delivered the opening remarks, emphasizing on the importance of tackling drug abuse in the community.
Shivanand Surve, IPS Superintendent of Police, Senapati, shed light on the topic of "Understanding Narcotic Drugs & Illicit Trafficking and its Impact on Students and Youths and the Legal Implications" .
Dr Ngouniba Peter, District Nodal Officer of District Mental Health Program, spoke on "Substance Use and its Adverse Effects," while Paveine Paulina Y, clinical psychologist from DMHP Senapati, addressed on "Psychological Interventions on Substance Use" .
The lecture session was followed by an engaging question and answer session where students' queries on drug-related issues and strategies to prevent or discourage drug use among youngsters were addressed.
In his closing remarks, Robin Kangba, vice-president SDSA, reiterated the severe damage caused by drug abuse in society and urged students not to indulge in such activities.
Instead, he called upon them to unite in the fight against drug usage for the betterment of their community.
The event marked a significant step in the battle against drug abuse, promoting awareness and unity in the fight for a drug-free society in Senapati District.