Raphael Warjri

Amid growing concerns over the rising incidence of drug abuse and HIV/AIDS in Meghalaya, an awareness programme was organised at St. Dominic Higher Secondary School, Nongrah, by a women’s organisation with support from the Dorbar Shnong Nongrah.

The initiative comes at a time when the state continues to grapple with the alarming spread of substance abuse, particularly among the youth, prompting urgent calls for preventive education at the school level.

Resource persons from the Meghalaya User Forum—comprising reformed former drug users—engaged directly with students, sharing real-life experiences to highlight the dangers of addiction and its long-term consequences.

The programme, held on the school campus, witnessed participation from students of Class V to Class X, along with teachers, parents, and the headmistress, reflecting a collective community effort to address the issue.

During the session, the speakers revealed that their descent into drug use began during their school years and, in some cases, persisted into their college education. They expressed deep remorse over their past decisions, acknowledging that ignoring the advice of parents and elders had led them down a destructive path.

Highlighting the seriousness of the situation in Meghalaya, the speakers cautioned students against falling into similar traps and urged them to remain vigilant. They stressed the importance of discipline, informed choices, and adherence to guidance from parents and teachers to prevent a crisis that continues to affect many families across the state.

The programme underscored the urgent need for sustained awareness and community involvement to combat the growing drug menace and its associated health risks in Meghalaya.