Nearly 30 guidance counselors, law enforcement officers and community leaders are participating in a three-day drug prevention seminar sponsored by the Royal Bahamas Police Force (RBPF) and the Bain and Grants Town Urban Renewal Programme.
The workshop is being held at the St. Agnes Anglican Church Community Centre and it brings together a cross-sector of people who in turn will provide mentorship programmes for students who attend schools in the Bains Town and Grants Town Constituency.
“The training session is patterned after the “I’m Special” drug prevention programme from America,” said Inspector Anthony Rolle of the RBPF.
“This workshop is a training exercise for our trainers who will then go out in to the primary schools for eight weeks where they will participate in drug prevention and activities with the children.”
At opening ceremonies for the workshop, State Minister for National Security Keith Bell applauded the efforts of those who work to be positive role models for the nation’s youth.
“This is a wonderful programme and this is a very good thing that you are doing,” he said. “It is all of our duty to ensure that we create a safe environment for our children who are the future of this nation.”
Also addressing the opening session was US Embassy Narcotics Officer David Jea, who pledged the United States’ continued support of efforts to fight drug use and trafficking in this country.
Mr. Jea said that programmes that reach out to young people are especially important to support.
“I commend the organisers, teachers, community workers, parents, and young people for your participation today and for the Urban Renewal effort in general,” Mr. Jea said.
“The holistic and synergistic way Urban Renewal attempts to match needs with resources, connects local communities with each other is inspirational and much needed.”
“The U.S. Embassy is proud to partner with the Government of the Commonwealth of The Bahamas in its effort to fight illegal drugs and its ills. This effort includes a joint fight against criminal drug traffickers. But it also includes a partnership to encourage young people and others reject drugs and the harm that goes with it.”
Albury Sayles Primary School, Woodcock Primary School and Mabel Walker Primary School are just some of the institutions that will benefit from the programme.
