“Government’s mission is to spearhead the continuous progress of the Nation, whereby harmony, respect, a safe and secure environment, free of the drug scourge, prevail. It is essential for everyone to join hands with us in the fight against drug trafficking.”
This statement was made, this afternoon, by the Prime Minister, Minister of Defence, Home Affairs and External Communications, Minister for Rodrigues, Outer Islands and Territorial Integrity, Mr Pravind Kumar Jugnauth, in his address to students of Rajkumar Gujadhur State Secondary School, in Flacq. He was participating in a workshop held for the secondary students under the ‘Unis Contre La Drogue’ National Campaign.
The Vice-Prime Minister, Minister of Education, Tertiary Education, Science and Technology, Mrs Leela Devi Dookun-Luchoomun; the Minister of Information Technology, Communication and Innovation, Mr Darsanand Balgobin; and the Minister of Blue Economy, Marine Resources, Fisheries and Shipping, Mr Sudheer Maudhoo, also participated in the workshop.
In his address, the Prime Minister underlined that the core purpose of the campaign was to gather views, experiences and expectations concerning the drug issue. “Government recognises the need to keep connected with the youth of the country so as to remain informed of their concerns and experiences,” he stressed. The Prime Minister assured that the views shared by the students during the workshop would be considered by policy makers as strategies were devised to address the issue.
Mr Jugnauth underlined that the Campaign formed part of the series of governmental measures to raise awareness about the harmful effects of drugs and was targeting young students in order to educate and sensitise them about the scourge at an early stage so that they were empowered to make informed decisions and stay away from potential peer pressure to engage in any related drug activity.
He further advised the youth of the country to stay away from the vicious cycle of drug which, he emphasised, would not only affect their life, but also that of their family and would impact society and the country. “I, however, remain convinced that we can work together with the youth of the Nation to pursue our fight against drug,” stated Mr Jugnauth.
Speaking about Government’s unwavering resolve to act against drug trafficking and abuse in the country, the Prime Minister informed that stringent measures were being taken against drug traffickers, while pointing out that up to now drugs amounting to some Rs 15 billion had been seized by the Police Force.
As regards the victims of drug abuse, he added that the Government was adopting a more compassionate approach and was providing the necessary treatment for their addiction and support for their rehabilitation.
Furthermore, the need for youngsters to adopt a healthy lifestyle and a sports culture, and to focus on both academic and lifelong learning whilst engaging in extracurricular activities for their wholesome development were underlined by the Prime Minister.
