The health ministry officially launched its anti-drug sensitization programme on Wednesday and is set to air a radio and television series as the country battles substance abuse, particularly alcoholism.
The programmes aim to inform the public about substance abuse, a problem that is destroying lives and is a plague on the society. Minister Dr Leslie Ramsammy said alcohol consumption has to be a public health priority. He said the consumption of alcohol per capita in Guyana is over six litres and it is a significant contributor to road accidents and domestic violence. The ministry will air a television programme ‘Changing Course’ on NCN starting Thursday, and radio series ‘Tales from the Crack’ from May 28 in order to inform the public of the dangers of experimenting with drugs.
According to the Govern-ment Information Agency (GINA) Ramsammy urged employers to collaborate with the ministry to ensure a drug free society. He said it is important that businesses are aware of the impact of alcohol and drugs in the work environment.
Meanwhile, Sheranne Isaacs, of the Focal Point Drug Demand Reduction Programme at the ministry said it is targeting various groups through national awareness, education and behaviour change campaigns to address the issue. She said the ministry has also started the Schools Anti-Drug Edutainment Programme and the Workplace Anti-Drug Sensitization Programme.
