Algiers – The Algerian government is intensifying efforts to combat drug use among students, implementing a comprehensive strategy that includes regular screenings and innovative indicators to detect substance abuse within educational institutions.
Minister of National Education, Mohamed Sghir Sadawi, emphasized the government’s commitment to safeguarding students and fostering a healthy learning environment. His statement followed the inauguration of a cross-sectoral committee tasked with implementing a new executive decree focused on drug detection in schools. Minister of Health, Mohamed Sadok Ait Mesoudan, also attended the inauguration, highlighting the collaborative nature of the initiative.
The committee’s primary objective is to develop a detailed roadmap for executing the executive decree. This roadmap will outline practical measures for implementing the decree’s provisions, ensuring respect for student rights and strengthening the role of educational institutions in prevention, counseling, and follow-up care.
Comprising representatives from various relevant government sectors, the committee reflects the multifaceted nature of the issue, addressing educational, health, and social dimensions. The committee will focus on creating precise mechanisms for rapid and effective intervention when needed, while ensuring that all sectors work in unison.
The new measures may include periodic screenings based on early indicators suggestive of potential drug use. However, these screenings will only be conducted with the consent of student representatives or a juvenile judge, protecting student privacy and adhering to legal requirements.
Minister Sadawi stressed that the primary goal is to protect students and integrate them into treatment programs, rather than pursue legal action. Students found to be using drugs will be enrolled in specialized treatment programs without facing judicial prosecution. This approach prioritizes treatment and prevention over punishment, reflecting a new direction for the Ministry of National Education.
DZWatch will continue to monitor this developing story.
