tame TIMES
WINNER OF THE 2012 & 2013 EKURHULENI AWARDS: BEST PRINT MEDIA
Thokoza, Palm Ridge, Eden Park
Becoming the voice of Ekurhuleni
Volume 03, 27 March 2014, Week 13
www.tametimes.co.za
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Intensifying battle against drug addictions Lebo Mosolodi lebo.kathorus@tametimes.co.za Drug addiction remains a major stumbling block which hinders the society’s progress, ravages dreams and leaves repercussions which could be passed to generations to come. This has resulted in the Thokoza based Alok Tele Centre hosting a substance abuse workshop at the Thokoza Auditorium recently. The workshop aimed at eradicating the impact of drug addiction in their neighbourhood. Speaking to tame TIMES, Alok Tele Centre Information officer Dikeledi Mashego said the workshop objective is to create an awareness of drug addiction. “In most cases the unsuspecting youth are targeted by drug dealers in order to sell drugs for them. They end up being drug addicts and commit petty crimes which has enormous consequences. Some end up behind bars which hinder them from pursuing their career dreams. The workshop also reminds the youth that there are various sports activities that they can partake in as an alternative.” Tsohang Youth Project senior facilitator,
Kate Satekge said the society is ignorant even though they have information about the dangers of drug addiction. “Youth should be reminded that they’re supposed to take the leadership roles of this country in the near future and that would not be accomplished if they indulge in drugs. Most of the youth end up dead or in prison which places the future of this country in jeopardy. Today we are here to remind them that they should empower themselves with the information and say no to drugs. They should start changing their behaviour and start living a productive lifestyle,” said Satekge. Joyce Sithole (27), workshop participant said the program is an eye opener because they are talking to the youth about the dangers of drug addiction. However, she said the organisers should start seeking permanent solutions by implementing the anti-drugs plan. “Children should be kept busy and parent’s involvement in their lives is essential. Parents should not leave the responsibility of sports development of their children solely in the hands of their sports coordinators but start taking an active role as well,” concluded Sithole.
The Thokoza Alok Tele Centre, Tsohang Youth Project representatives and the workshop participants are happy about the outcomes of the anti drugs workshop.