Widespread Addiction Among Young Students Raises Alarm
Recent reports from civil society organizations in Marrakech have unveiled a troubling trend of addiction among students at a primary school in the Sidi Boudchiche area. According to these organizations, over 130 cases of addiction have been documented by a specialized association dedicated to combating substance abuse within this particular school. Parents, alongside community leaders, have expressed their deep concern regarding the school's situation, especially as it currently lacks an official principal. The absence of effective leadership raises fears about the vulnerability of hundreds of students who may be at risk of succumbing to addiction, particularly those who are minors and at crucial stages in their educational and personal development.
The community stakeholders are urging educational, health, and social authorities to intervene decisively, ensuring a safer environment for their children. They are also calling for the implementation of a more stringent treatment protocol for students struggling with addiction. Peer pressure has been identified as a significant factor contributing to youth addiction, highlighting the need for comprehensive support systems within schools.
Addiction among children and adolescents is increasingly recognized as one of the most pressing health and social challenges of our time. This issue extends beyond traditional substances, encompassing dangerous chemical compounds and behavioral addictions, such as those related to digital consumption. In Marrakech, there are ongoing efforts by civil society and local authorities to combat addiction among youth, particularly those who are homeless or in precarious situations. A previous field study conducted among secondary school students in the region found that 40.67% had experimented with psychoactive substances at least once, with an overall consumption rate of 26%. Tobacco and cigarettes topped the list of substances used, accounting for 17.33%, followed by cannabis at 8%, and alcohol and other psychoactive substances, such as inhalants and psychotropic pills.
As reported by akhbarona.com.
