PUPILS TOLD: DON’T LET DRUGS STEAL YOUR FUTURE

By THABO MOTLHABI

THE times we live in today are challenging.

But talking to pupils about things that could jeopardise their future now, rather than later, could be the key to a better life.

Recently, Aware.org hosted an awareness campaign focusing on underage drinking, substance abuse and drug use.

Mokebe Thulo, CEO of Aware.org spoke to pupils at Winchester Ridge Primary School about substance abuse and other things that could lead to pupils losing focus on their studies and ultimately dropping out of school.

She said children cannot succeed if they are not guided by elderly people.

Mokebe said violence and drug prevention programmes are needed to help guide children so that they can see a vision for their lives.

“Preventing underage drinking is about more than simply telling young people what not to do. It’s about creating spaces where they can engage, ask questions and understand how their choices can affect their health, well-being and future,” she said.

Mokebe said gender-based violence in the country, as well as other challenges, is affecting children, with some struggling to concentrate at school.

The objective of programmes like this one is to ensure that children are able to speak up if there is anything holding them back in their lives.

If more and more programmes like this are held to educate and empower young people, this country will be a better place to live in.

She said they want to show pupils that there are certain things they cannot control in life, such as their environment.

But they want to help them control their feelings, behaviours and thoughts.

Other organisations that were there to offer help included SANCA Central Rand.

Children sometimes end up doing wrong things because of peer pressure, a lack of positive identity, limited communication at home, a shortage of role models, the availability of sports facilities in their area and many other factors.