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Kwazakhele, Eastern Cape – With drug abuse affecting thousands of youth across South Africa, the Eastern Cape Department of Social Development (DSD) is taking decisive action to curb the crisis. In a landmark initiative recently, the Department partnered with the Foundation for a Drug-Free World to host an impactful “Truth About Drugs” workshop at the Kwazakhele District Office, bringing together non-profit organization leaders, social workers, and DSD district representatives.
The workshop aimed to strengthen the capacity of key community leaders in drug prevention strategies, a core mandate of the Department. By focusing on both education and practical tools, the initiative promises to play a crucial role in reducing the devastating effects of substance abuse in the province.
The event featured powerful audio-visual presentations, showcasing real-life stories from individuals who have battled addiction and public service announcements covering the dangers of all major drugs. These were followed by deep discussions on the reasons people use drugs, their effects on the body and mind, and the challenges of overcoming addiction.
Deputy Director and Social Work Policy Manager for Substance Abuse, Mr. Mawethu Vena, emphasized the importance of the workshop, noting how it reinforced the DSD’s strategic harm reduction interventions. “This workshop strengthens our efforts to fulfill the objectives outlined in the Provincial Drug Master Plan,” said Vena. “By implementing harm reduction, supply reduction, and demand reduction strategies, we are better positioned to combat the challenges of substance abuse at the community level.”
These interventions include the Teenagers Against Drug Abuse Programme in schools, and the expansion of the Ke Moja Strategy ("I’m Fine Without Drugs"), which raises awareness in both schools and institutions of higher learning.
A standout feature of the workshop was the introduction of a free online Drug Education Course, consisting of 14 modules, each focusing on a different drug. Each module starts with an introductory video and provides detailed information on the drug's effects, risks, and dangers. Attendees were able to complete the first module during the workshop, receiving certificates for their efforts.
The online course allows participants to continue their learning journey at their own pace, helping them build a deeper understanding of the impact of drug abuse. By offering a flexible, accessible platform, the course is designed to reach a wider audience, from educators to parents and community leaders.
Workshop participants shared valuable insights and reflected on how the training would influence their work and personal lives. One attendee remarked, “I now feel more comfortable and better equipped to deal with drug-related challenges.” Another said, “I have gained a better understanding of the long-term effects of drugs and the harm they cause to the body.” A third added, “I feel empowered to better educate youth and parents on alcohol and drug abuse.”
These testimonials reflect the tangible impact the workshop had on the attendees, equipping them not just with knowledge, but also with practical tools to make a difference in their communities.
This workshop marks a key step in the Eastern Cape DSD's larger strategy to address substance abuse, aligning with both provincial and national objectives. By focusing on harm reduction, supply reduction, and demand reduction, the DSD is ensuring that communities across the Eastern Cape have the tools they need to combat drug abuse effectively. This collaboration with the Foundation for a Drug-Free World, inspired by L. Ron Hubbard, is part of ongoing efforts to roll out drug education programs in schools, workplaces, and community centers.
With the success of the Kwazakhele workshop, the Eastern Cape Department of Social Development has already scheduled future sessions across the province, ensuring that more communities are reached. Schools, NGOs, and community leaders are encouraged to get involved in upcoming workshops to expand the fight against drugs.
Contact Info:
Name: SANDILE HLAYISI
Email: Send Email
Organization: CHURCH OF SCIENTOLOGY SOUTH AFRICA
Address: Gauteng, South Africa
Phone: +27 061 907 9325
Website: https://www.castlekyalami.org.za/
Video URL: https://youtu.be/iQVrtkst3Ns
Release ID: 89142911
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