Drug Awareness Week ends with quiz

A recent survey carried out by the National Drug Abuse Control Council in Belize City and Dangriga revealed that children as young as ten years old are experimenting with alcohol, cigarettes and marijuana. To try and teach children about the ill effects of these substances, particularly on young bodies and minds, the Council sponsored an awareness week in which primary school children marched, wore yellow ribbons to show their commitment to a drug-free lifestyle. But the countrywide drug awareness quiz was the activity, which really brought out the spirit in the children. Jackie Woods reports.

Drug Awareness Week concluded today with the Fourth National Drug Quiz Contest Finals and a festival at the City Center. The finals were well attended by primary school students and teachers who cheered on the challengers who began studying for the quiz in September.

Keith Emmanuel, Schools/Community Programme Coordinator, NDACC

“Well in round one and round two, the kids are getting general information questions that are just on drug facts. Like asking them what is the most addictive drugs and what are some of the procedures that they should follow when they are taking medications. How does marijuana affect their health, stuff like that, general information. But when they get the last question that’s where the real work begins. They will be tested on their knowledge.”

In the end, thirteen year old Terry Westby, a standard six student from Sacred Heart School in Dangriga walked off with the grand first prize of a computer with all accessories.

Terry Westby,- Winner, National Drug Contest

” Well I had a lot of support from my teachers, my mom and my dad, my sisters and everyone in my family. I had to read a lot of books, read pamphlets and most of all take down notes from everything I do cause it will benefit me.”

There was a drug free fest after the quiz with student entertainment and performances by the MD’s and the Young Artists Association. Jacqueline Woods reporting for News Five.

Drug Awareness Week was observed under the Theme: Reinforcing Accurate Drug information and Enhancing Positive Life Skills.