PHOTOS: Dave Savides
AFTER a scary presentation on the dangers and effects of drug usage, hundreds of Unizulu students have hopefully put off for life any thoughts of dabbling in dope.
This after they attended an eye-opening drug awareness campaign at the City Campus.
Hosted by the Richards Bay SAPS and CPF, the event was also supported by BAC Zululand, LifeLine and SANCA.
Dr Cristina Weyers, campus coordinator, urged the students to take full advantage of the information shared, which would equip them with knowledge and the ‘power to say no’.
Campus Executive Director, Dr Isaac Machi, warned that students from rural areas were ‘extremely vulnerable’ as they experienced city life for the first time.
Captain Michelle Michael spoke on and showed visuals of various drugs, and their short- and long-term side effects.
Pictures of damaged blood vessels, eroded gums and eaten-away flesh had students cringing and squirming in their seats.
A warning was also given on the potential negative influence of social media in relation to the narcotics situation.
‘Until you know the person on the other side (of the phone or Internet), do not disclose any personal information and never meet them alone.’
A moving testimony by a recovering young crystal meth addict of her fight for sanity and healing, had a profound, visible impact on the students.
The police K-9 Dog Unit was also on hand to demonstrate the effectiveness of their sniffer dogs.
A bag of illicit substance was placed in various places around the room, and labrador Thibos, handled by Sgt Sandile Nshangase, did not disappoint the audience.
Dave Whittaker, CEO of Business Against Crime Zululand, explained the extent of the drug problem in Richards Bay and provided an address to which students could anonymously send drug information or concerns.
All speakers impressed on them the fact that drug usage would not only affect their future lives and careers, but could also lead to criminal convictions and heartache to families and friends.
