Kenya: New School Manual Gives Top Priority to War Against Drug Abuse

Posted to the web 20 August 2008 Alphonce Shiundu Nairobi The fight against drugs is top on the list of the school safety standards manual released on Tuesday by the Ministry of Education. The stance taken seems to hinge on student involvement, through sharing of experiences with regard to occurrences in their neighbourhoods. "Learners should discuss and suggest ways that can contribute to creating a drug-free school environment," the manual says. It notes the role played by kiosks and small businesses located near schools and recommends "close monitoring of the activities with a view of taking any necessary remedial intervention". The manual aims at creating a safe and caring environment, where both students and the staff understand the dangers of drug abuse. It calls for counselling of all those caught engaging in the act.... [read full story]