Rotary challenged to tackle youth drug and alcohol abuse

Rotary leaders in the BVI are being challenged to develop a structured substance abuse prevention programme for young people amid growing concerns about alcohol and drug use among the territory’s youth.

Rotary Assistant Governor in the BVI, Shan Mohamed, issued the challenge to members of the Rotary Club of Central Tortola, saying the initiative should go beyond one-off awareness activities and produce measurable results.

“I am challenging this club, its leadership and its members, to champion this,” Mohamed said. “Be the driving force that designs and launches a structured, sustainable substance awareness and prevention programme for the young people of these islands.”

His comments come against the backdrop of reports and public concern about young people abusing alcohol and drugs at social events and in schools. The issue has prompted wider discussions about access to substances, parental responsibility and the need for stronger intervention before young people develop serious substance abuse problems.

Mohamed described the situation as a “national crisis” that requires the involvement of multiple sectors.

He said any programme developed by Rotary should have “a blueprint, a budget, and a measurable outcome” and should not simply be “a one-day event” or an activity staged for publicity. According to Mohamed, young people also need a stronger sense of purpose and positive role models who can demonstrate the value of integrity, hard work and kindness.

“They need to be shown that their lives matter and that they have a role to play in shaping our society,” he said.

Mohamed stressed that Rotary cannot address the problem on its own, calling for schools, churches, government and other community organisations to become partners in the effort.

“We cannot do it alone. We are not meant to,” he said. “This is a national crisis, and it will require community partnership.”

He urged Rotary members to take the first step by creating a model that can be sustained and expanded, while continuing to identify and address other social problems affecting the territory.