Learners to help fight against substance abuse
Chosen learners from Wyebank Secondary School, Westmead Secondary School and Eric Mtshali Secondary School were trained to be representatives for the South African National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence.
THE South African National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence (Sanca) Durban, together with Pinetown SAPS, conducted a four-day programme training learners to be Tada marshals – a campaign for teenagers by teenagers.
The learners were chosen from Wyebank Secondary School, Westmead Secondary School and Eric Mtshali Secondary School
A social worker at Sanca, Sikho Mngoma, said they have been running the programme called Tada – Teenagers against Drug Abuse – for years and are funded by the Department of Social Development.
“The learners were taught all facts about drugs which will equip them to run awareness and prevention campaigns in their respective schools, curbing all substance-abuse pressures and influences.
“This was started after we noticed the increase in the problems caused by substance abuse. We also have another one called YADA: Youth against Drug Abuse.”
Mngoma said most schools face many challenges because of learners who are using substances and those who are dealing in school property with other learners.
“Drugs are killing the future of our young people – many learners end up dropping out of school because of drug abuse. We hope that with this training, our representatives can help make a difference in their schools and communities,” she said.
Wyebank Secondary School learner Denise Ndovela said she was very satisfied and happy but also scared to be part of the programme.
“It has taught me many things I did not know about substance abuse. I am honoured to be part of this and look forward to passing my knowledge on to my peers, family and friends. I also learnt that drugs can damage your inner body parts.
“I advise people to get assistance and speak out should they face any challenges instead of turning to drugs,” said the learner.
By having them as representatives, learners who have drug issues can speak to them and be referred to Sanca for assistance.
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