Media Release
Mangaluru, Jun 26: The International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, or World Drug Day, is observed worldwide on June 26 every year to strengthen action and cooperation in achieving a world free of drug abuse. The theme is “The Evidence is Clear: Invest in Prevention.”
Lourdes Central School observed International Day Against Drug Abuse on June 26 in the Bejai Church Hall for the students of classes IX to XII on the topic “Think Health Not Drugs”. The programme began with a prayer song sung by the school choir. Manavi of class XIB welcomed the gathering and introduced the guest speaker Clara D’Cunha.
The guest speaker Clara D’Cunha, an MPhil in social work and an Internationally certified addiction professional, highlighted on drugs and psychoactive substances that affect how the brain functions. She expressed that alcohol has a serious impact on the physical and mental health of youngsters like impairs memory, reduces ability to learn and causes depression. She stated that brain growth is at its peak at 18 years, and drugs and substances will not allow a person to enjoy an active life and have a healthy appearance. Clara D’Cunha reiterated on the protective factors for the prevention of substance use like knowing values, valuing the body, and having gratitude. She urged the students to work together for a substance free future by being able to say ‘NO’, asking help from the right people, allotting time for planning healthy fun activities on a regular basis, having healthy pursuits like sports, music, reading books and involving the entire family. Overall, the talk on ‘Think Health Not Drugs’ shed light on the challenges, consequences and most importantly the solutions to combat this pressing issue.
The principal Fr Johnson Sequeira honored the resource person Clara D’Cunha with a memento as a token of love and appreciation. The vice principal Belita Mascarenhas and Anita Thomas were present for the session.
Merlyn Rodrigues of class XA proposed a vote of thanks and Manavi of class XIB compered the programme.