THE EDITOR, Madam:
A NATION'S most precious resource is its children, from today's children come tomorrow's leaders. Also from today's children come tomorrow's criminals, drug addicts, prostitutes, and murderers. A nation that does not cherish and protect all of its children, and not just the children of the privileged few, is a nation in crisis.
After 38 years of Independence, Jamaica is a country in crisis. For example, the rates of teenage pregnancy, abortion, and violent crimes committed by teenagers are too high. Half-hearted measures to correct the problem are not adequate assurances for a growing nation. An occasional workshop or seminar designed for public consumption only tends to provide information explaining the whys and hows with very little planning for prevention.
Identifying a problem is only one part of the prevention equation. Developing meaningful and long-lasting solutions is the primary purpose of prevention programmes. Financing and training persons and organisations dedicated to the prevention of teenage alcohol and drug abuse should be of concern to all citizens and government who plans for the future.
Education is one of the key ingredients of any drug prevention strategy. Therefore it would seem wise and necessary for the policy of the Ministry of Education to include trained personnel dedicated to identifying individuals and programmes that address the problems of young people who are determined to be 'at risk' for alcohol and drug abuse in the school system. One method of prevention is to spot potential problems and apply corrective measures before a crisis develops.
One of the primary targets for prevention programmes should be families with a history of alcohol and drug abuse. Therefore, more time, money and effort should be allocated for those community programmes that focus on the family.
Parents must become actively involved in their children's education. Concerned parents must physically and financially support community programmes and activities for children. Attendance at PTA meetings is essential. All efforts should be made to be in the cheering section during football, cricket or basketball games, track and field events, debates, Bible quiz, choir practices, camping trips and social events. Drug prevention is every parent's business.
I am, etc.,
FELICIA FFRENCH
Negril P.O.
Westmoreland
