Surin, Thailand – Nearly 30% of at-risk students tested positive for drugs during a recent screening in Surin province.
Nearly 30 out of 100 tested students positive
Urine samples collected from students at a local secondary school, following a district-led training program, revealed traces of narcotics in nearly 30 of the 100 students categorized as high-risk.
Teachers and officials described the findings on Wednesday, June 3rd, as alarming. They view the results as a measurable indicator of a broader problem among the youth in the province.
Many affected are girls and very young
Of the positive tests, nearly half were from female students, heightening concerns about the prevalence among young people. Reports and statements suggest that drug use among some children begins as early as the 6th grade.
Rehabilitant reports sales and use at schools
During a visit to the Civic Rehabilitation Centre, officials spoke with a 19-year-old participant. He stated he had been using methamphetamine since he was 14 and had previously sold drugs to students.
The young man described drug use occurring at school locations, including restrooms and during class time. He noted this activity makes monitoring and detection difficult for teachers.
Screening targeted at notable teenagers
The students tested had previous histories of truancy or behavioral issues. They had also participated in a district training program before the urine tests were administered.
The combination of training measures and subsequent tests provided authorities with concrete figures on the extent of the issue within the selected risk group.
Some schools refuse tests fearing reputation
School cooperation was inconsistent. While some administrators collaborated with authorities, several institutions declined similar screening activities.
Officials see these refusals as an obstacle to early identification of new users and the implementation of targeted prevention measures.
Senator brings findings into Senate work
Senator Rujipas Meekusol, a representative for Surin in the Senate and spokesperson for the Senate Committee on Law and Justice, intends to present the working group’s findings and have them examined.
The issue will be discussed during a planned visit by the Senate Committee to Surin on June 5th and 6th, with prevention and enforcement measures on the agenda.