Several programmes were conducted in various parts of the island with a special focus on the rehabilitation of drug addicts.

A public awareness programme on rehabilitating those who are addicted to illegal substances organized by Drug Prevention Unit of the North Western Provincial Council and Police in Polgahawela was held at Polgahawela Towan Hall.

Special deliberations were conducted by officials at the Drug Prevention Unit on how to recover and rehabilitate those who are addicted to dangerous drugs and other substances, guidance and treatments.

The youth attendees expressing their views said that they are grateful to the guidance and advice given by the President as the first citizen of the country. Through this broad awareness programme they said they were able to acknowledge their mistake and if steps are been taken to conduct more events of this nature it will pave the way to guide the youth on the right path.

The Deputy Chief Secretary of North Western Province P. B. Wickremasinghe and other senior officials, senior Police officials were among the participants.

A walk was commenced today (28) from Bentara Alakaka Maha Vidyalaya marking the launch of the programme in the Southern Province with the assistance of Elpitiya Zonal Education Office and the Police in Uragasmanhandiya.

In addition, a school day programme was organized in Hindu College in Modara. Arts and Poster competition themed under “Let us learn drug prevention from children” was also held at the school premises.

Ayurveda Commissioner of the Western Province Ms. Mala Perera conducted a special drug prevention programme at Janadhipathi Balika Vidyalaya in Colombo.

Tomorrow is the sixth day of the Drug Prevention Week and activities centered around university students will be held.