Current situation in Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka has been facing growing challenges in the area of drug use for years, particularly among children and young people. Young people from low-income and urban areas are particularly at risk. Sri Lanka is increasingly focusing on drug prevention as part of the national "One Mission, One Country" campaign. Schools play a central role in this, as young people between the ages of 13 and 18 are among the largest risk group.
While humedica used to primarily strengthen children of primary school age and support them in their school learning with the GROW Centers, it is now clear that older pupils face additional risks and require other forms of support.
Challenges for many pupils:
- increasing peer pressure
- lack of knowledge about the risks of drugs
- lack of ability to recognize warning signs
- lack of protective mechanisms in the social environment
- unreflective use of social media, which can reinforce risky behaviour
In light of this, early education, teaching values and strengthening personal resilience are more important than ever in schools. Without targeted prevention, the risk of children and young people slipping into risky behavior remains high.
How does humedica help?
Our GRACE project (Growth, Responsibility, Awareness, Care, Empowerment) starts directly in schools - with a clear focus on prevention, resilience and the early identification of young people at risk. Both teachers and pupils in the cities of Colombo and Jaffna learn how to recognize risks early on, make responsible decisions and create a strong, value-oriented school environment in training sessions and workshops.
Training teachers so that they can recognize early on when children and young people are at risk or need support
Building values and personality in everyday school life to promote self-confidence, self-control and responsible interaction with one another
Information and discussion services for schoolchildren on the dangers of drugs, dealing with peer pressure and safe behavior - including on the internet
Promoting committed pupils who act as responsible role models to support and educate their fellow pupils
Establishment of permanent support groups at schools so that children and young people have permanent contact persons and prevention is anchored in the long term
How you can help
Support our work in Sri Lanka's schools and help protect children and young people from risky behavior, substance abuse and the dangers of social media.