COP UNDERSCORES DARE TEACHER'S ROLE IN FIGHT AGAINST DRUGS AND CRIME

While the battle against rise in drugs and crime in the Federation of
St. Kitts/Nevis does not rest solely on the shoulders of DARE (Drug
Awareness Resistance Education) teachers, their role in the fight has
been described as a paramount one.

During the opening ceremony of the Caribbean DARE Officers Training
Workshop on Monday, Acting Commissioner of Police, Meredith Charles,
in speaking to existing and prospective DARE officers explained that
if the DARE programme is to be successful, DARE teachers/DARE
officers must exhibit commitment.

"DARE teachers, your commitment and interest are of optimum
importance for the sustainability and success of the programme. Do
not take the training for granted and deem it as another course added
to your routine training. I implore you to take the job seriously and
dedicate your services not only during your normal working hours but
every, and anytime it becomes necessary to do so."

The Charles further explained that DARE teachers must prove
themselves to be good examples to their students. This, he said, will
contribute to the success of the DARE programme which would equate to
a reduction in the drug related crimes in the Federation.

"A DARE teacher must have the capacity and skills to foster, counsel,
guide and be a good example to his or her students. A DARE teacher
must not only demonstrate interest in the students who are at school
but away from school as well. The student must be told explicitly
that if they are expected to function normally, they must avoid use
of dangerous drugs at all cost. Especially when these drugs are not
prescribed. No one should put anything which is harmful or known to
be harmful into their bodies."

"We in St. Kitts/Nevis are better off today because of the DARE
programme," Charles said continuing that, "the lives of so many
children have been transformed for the better. ... All those who will
be benefiting from this training must realise the skills and
knowledge procured to the advantage of each child in the various
schools and the community at large."