Sri Lanka's Ministry of Education will launch a pilot project aimed at preventing drug use among schoolchildren across 25 districts, targeting areas identified as having a heightened risk of drug-related issues. The initiative is set to commence with an inaugural event on October 16 at Vijayaba Vidyalaya, located in the Grandpass area of Colombo.

Deputy Director of the Ministry of Education, Mahesh Ratnayake, explained that the program will focus on schools situated in communities where drug threats are most prevalent. Within these schools, vulnerable student groups will be identified to receive specialized drug prevention interventions.

The project's primary goal is to empower students through the education system, equipping them with the knowledge and skills necessary to decline drug use and to make informed, responsible decisions. By addressing the issue at the school level, authorities hope to curb the spread of drug abuse among young learners and promote healthier, drug-free lifestyles.

This pilot phase will serve as a foundation for potentially broader implementation nationwide, depending on its effectiveness. The Ministry intends to closely monitor and evaluate the program’s impact as it unfolds.