THE INITIATIVE by the Department of Education (DepEd) – Schools Division of Iloilo to integrate drug prevention education into the school curriculum – in collaboration with the Philippine National Police and the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) – is a promising strategy. The incident involving a 16-year-old student from Janiuay town caught with a sachet of suspected shabu crystallizes the urgency of this mission. The menace of drugs can infiltrate even the lives of the very young. This should push us to act swiftly and decisively.
Making drug education a cornerstone of the academic experience in public schools is a smart move. It can be a powerful tool in the fight against drug abuse. By arming students with knowledge about the dangers of drug use, the physiological and psychological impacts, and the legal consequences, we empower them to make informed decisions.
The introduction of specialized modules within the Good Manners and Right Conduct (GMRC) curriculum for students from Grade 7 to Grade 10 is particularly praiseworthy. These modules will cover a range of topics, from prevention strategies to the health detriments of drug use, providing a holistic education that extends beyond traditional academic subjects.
The “training of trainers” program for teachers spearheaded by PDEA is a strategic enhancement to this educational framework. By training teachers and school heads, DepEd-Iloilo is ensuring that the message of drug prevention permeates throughout the school environment, turning educators into important frontline defenders against drug abuse.
But the integration of drug prevention into the curriculum must be executed with care to ensure it does not stigmatize or inadvertently promote curiosity about drugs. The approach should be balanced, focusing on imparting knowledge and fostering a supportive environment where students feel safe to discuss and seek help regarding sensitive issues like drug abuse. This holds the promise of not only curbing drug abuse among students but also fostering a generation more aware of and resilient against the perils of drug use.
As this program rolls out in Iloilo schools, starting with its planned full implementation in October, it will be essential to monitor its effectiveness and adapt strategies as needed. Success will require not only the commitment of schools, law enforcement, and drug prevention agencies but also the involvement of parents and the community. It takes a village to raise a child, and it certainly takes an entire community to shield them from the scourge of drugs.
