In Kerala, the rising cases of substance abuse among students have triggered urgent and proactive responses from both the government and educational institutions. Amid this crisis, several anti-drug campaigns have been planned, especially within schools and higher educational institutions. These campaigns aim to raise awareness, educate students, and create a collective effort toward the prevention of substance abuse. The two prominent campaigns currently leading this initiative are ‘Snehathon’ and ‘PRAJNA’.
The Institute of Human Resources Development (IHRD) under the Higher Education Department has launched ‘Snehathon’, while CBSE schools in Kerala are set to roll out the ‘PRAJNA’ initiative. These campaigns are designed to provide the much-needed attention to the growing problem of substance abuse and to foster a drug-free learning environment.
The Growing Problem of Substance Abuse Among Students
Substance abuse among students has become a serious concern in Kerala, with an increasing number of students falling prey to the addictive effects of drugs. This issue not only affects their academic performance but also poses long-term physical and mental health risks.
Schools and colleges, once considered safe environments, are now seen as vulnerable places where drug peddlers target young students. The rising instances of drug-related issues have prompted both state authorities and educational institutions to take immediate action to prevent the spread of substance abuse. These efforts aim to reduce the adverse effects of substance abuse on the youth and to provide students with the tools and knowledge needed to avoid drugs.
‘Snehathon’ – A Campaign for Love and Awareness
The ‘Snehathon’ campaign, led by IHRD, is designed to spread the message of love, compassion, and awareness about the harmful effects of drugs. The name ‘Snehathon’ itself symbolizes a movement driven by love, intended to counteract the violent tendencies and behavioral issues among youth that are often fueled by substance abuse.
As part of the campaign, 88 IHRD institutions are coming together to organize various programs aimed at raising awareness. One of the key events under the campaign is the mass run titled ‘Run Away from Drugs’, scheduled for March 9. This run will be flagged off by the Higher Education Minister in Kollam, encouraging the public to take part in spreading awareness against drugs.
In addition to the run, IHRD students will participate in the creation of a symbolic ‘Snehamathil’ (wall of love), sending a strong message of unity against substance abuse. The event will culminate in a public meeting, with influential personalities from various sectors addressing students, discussing the dangers of substance abuse, and offering support and guidance.
The Role of CBSE Schools in Combating Substance Abuse
Meanwhile, CBSE schools across Kerala are also taking a proactive approach to combat drug abuse through their own campaign, ‘PRAJNA’. This initiative is focused on creating awareness, prevention strategies, and providing empowerment to students.
The official launch of PRAJNA will take place during the Council of CBSE Schools Kerala’s (CSSK) state convention in April, where Governor Rajendra Arlekar is expected to formally announce the initiative. With the backing of key stakeholders such as law enforcement, legal experts, and mental health professionals, PRAJNA is poised to make a significant impact in the fight against drug abuse.
This campaign is expected to involve over 1,500 CBSE-affiliated schools and reach more than 3 million students across the state. It will also include parents, non-teaching staff, teachers, and school management, ensuring that everyone plays an active role in the campaign.
Key Features of PRAJNA
Holistic and Phased Implementation
One of the primary strengths of the PRAJNA initiative is its holistic and phased approach. The program will be implemented across all grade levels, starting from the younger grades to senior students. By targeting different age groups, PRAJNA ensures that students receive age-appropriate education on the dangers of drug abuse, empowering them with the knowledge and tools needed to resist drugs at every stage of their educational journey.
Regular Monitoring and Evaluation
To measure the effectiveness of the initiative, regular monitoring and assessment will be conducted. These evaluations will help track the progress of the campaign, identify areas that need further attention, and adjust the strategies as needed to ensure maximum impact.
Integration into Existing Academic and Co-Curricular Activities
PRAJNA will be fully integrated into the existing academic and co-curricular frameworks of the schools. This integration will ensure that anti-drug awareness becomes a part of the regular school activities, making it easier for students to absorb and apply the knowledge they receive. Whether through classroom discussions, special seminars, or extracurricular activities, PRAJNA aims to make anti-drug education an integral part of the students’ learning experience.
Collaborative Efforts Between Stakeholders
Both ‘Snehathon’ and ‘PRAJNA’ campaigns rely on strong collaboration among various stakeholders to ensure their success. The Kerala state government, school authorities, law enforcement agencies, mental health professionals, and the community are all working together to address the growing issue of substance abuse among students.
Role of Teachers and Parents
Teachers and parents are vital to the success of these campaigns. Teachers, as primary caregivers and mentors in schools, are responsible for educating students about the dangers of substance abuse and offering guidance to those who may be struggling with drug-related issues. Similarly, parents play an equally important role by being vigilant, providing emotional support, and ensuring their children understand the harmful consequences of substance abuse.
Support from Law Enforcement and Social Workers
Law enforcement agencies have been brought on board to help curb the supply of drugs to students. The Kerala Police, alongside social workers, will be conducting workshops, seminars, and awareness campaigns to educate both students and their families on the signs of drug abuse and the steps to take if they suspect someone is involved in substance abuse.
Challenges and Solutions
Despite the extensive efforts being made to combat substance abuse, challenges remain. Peer pressure, easy access to drugs, and a lack of awareness are some of the significant barriers that continue to hinder progress.
One potential solution to these challenges is increasing the involvement of the community in anti-drug campaigns. By building strong community networks, schools can create a more supportive environment where students feel empowered to resist drugs and seek help when needed.
The anti-drug initiatives in Kerala, namely ‘Snehathon’ and ‘PRAJNA’, represent a concerted effort by both government bodies and educational institutions to tackle the growing problem of substance abuse among students. With a collaborative approach, these campaigns are set to make a lasting impact, fostering a generation of young individuals who are educated about the dangers of drugs and equipped with the knowledge to resist them. However, the journey is far from over, and continuous efforts are required to maintain a drug-free and safe learning environment for students.
FAQs
Q1: What is the ‘Snehathon’ campaign?
The ‘Snehathon’ campaign is an anti-drug initiative launched by IHRD, aimed at spreading awareness about substance abuse and promoting love and compassion as a means to combat youth violence and drug use.
Q2: How does the ‘PRAJNA’ initiative support students?
The ‘PRAJNA’ initiative by CBSE schools provides anti-drug awareness, prevention strategies, and empowerment for students. It engages teachers, parents, and the community to ensure a drug-free learning environment.
Q3: How can teachers and parents help in preventing drug abuse?
Teachers can educate students about the dangers of drugs, while parents must provide emotional support and create a home environment that discourages drug use. Together, they can help students make better decisions and avoid falling into the trap of substance abuse.
Q4: How is law enforcement involved in the anti-drug campaigns?
Law enforcement agencies collaborate with schools and other stakeholders to monitor and curb the supply of drugs to students, conduct awareness programs, and provide guidance on how to recognize and address drug abuse.
Q5: What are the challenges faced in curbing substance abuse?
Challenges include peer pressure, easy access to drugs, and a lack of awareness. Overcoming these barriers requires continuous education, community involvement, and stronger vigilance in educational institutions.
