KENYA: Archbishop Cautions Students against Drug Abuse

NYERI JULY 8, 2016 (CISA) – Archbishop Peter Kairo of the Catholic Archdiocese of Nyeri has cautioned Secondary School students against drug and substance abuse, which can hinder the

fulfillment of their future dreams.

“Keep off from drugs and substance abuse which may hinder your from attaining your full potential in life,” the Archbishop said last weekend during the official opening of St. Jean-Baptiste de La Salle Catholic School, Karemeno, Nyeri, Canaa News Agency reported.

He further reminded the student that they are the future transformers of their own lives, that of their respective communities and the society at large, encouraging them to be on the lookout for those who may lead them astray.

A 2012 countrywide survey by the Rapid Assessment Drug and Substance Abuse in Kenya revealed that one in three students reported using one or more drugs.

The survey indicated that alcohol was the most commonly abused substance, with 36.3 per cent of students reporting a lifetime use.

Cigarettes were used by 20.2 per cent, bhang by 9.8 per cent, kuber (5.5 per cent), heroin (3.1 per cent), inhalants 2.7 (per cent), amphetamines/mandrax (2.6 per cent) and cocaine was used by 2.2 per cent.

Archbishop Kairo further called on the clergy, men and women religious as well as the laity with “a special Charism of teaching” to engage the young people and guide them to embrace good behavior.

The Archbishop congratulated Brothers of the Christian Schools for the enormous contributions they have made in the field of education in his Archdiocese and beyond.

“Touching hearts and teaching minds are the greatest miracles any educator can ever perform and one that God can never forget or let it pass unrewarded,” Archbishop Kairo said, quoting St. John Baptist De La Salle, the Patron Saint of Christian Educator and the Founder of Brothers of the Christian schools.

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