To coincide with International Drug Awareness Day on 26 June 2004, the period 21 to 26 June has been declared Drug Awareness Week. Because of the serious effects that drug abuse can have on our learners, the WCED strongly supports this initiative.

Attached are the following documents, which may assist you in planning events and activities to combat substance abuse at your schools:

• A letter from the MEC for Education, Cameron Dugmore, urging participation in proactive intervention strategies for the Western Cape

• An information brochure on substance abuse, prepared by the Safe Schools Division

• Suggested phase-appropriate learning programmes, prepared by the Directorate: Curriculum Development

You are strongly encouraged to devote at least one hour during the week to the topic of substance abuse, its damaging effect on the well-being of individuals and its consequent impact on society.

SIGNED: D.R. SHEPHERD
HEAD: EDUCATION
DATE: 2004:06:18