Education ministry, NACD open anti-drug library in capital school
THE Ministry of Education, Youth and Sport, in partnership with the National Authority for Combating Drugs (NACD), opened an anti-drug library on December 25. The project, supported by China, is housed within the Samdech Techo Hun Sen Library at Boeung Trabek High School in Phnom Penh.
Ministry secretary of state Chuon Chivin expressed gratitude during the inauguration ceremony, acknowledging the collaboration of all stakeholders and extending special thanks to China for fostering comprehensive friendship between the two nations.
“This anti-drug library serves as a platform to enhance knowledge, engage in prevention, reduce drug-related issues and safeguard human resources for Cambodia’s national development goals,” he said.
NACD secretary-general Meas Virith said that establishing the anti-drug library reflects the government’s commitment to addressing the core issue of drug problems.
Education takes precedence in delivering a message, especially to the youth, motivating them to avoid the pitfalls of drugs, guided by the principle of “Good and Capable Young People, Fast Developing Country”.
Chang Jian, deputy chief of mission at the Chinese embassy in Phnom Penh, pledged that China would persist in supporting the fight against drugs through the enduring principles of mutual assistance and friendship. This collaboration, he said, represents a “diamond friendship” between the two nations.
“This library truly showcases
China’s dedication to supporting Cambodia in tackling drug issues. Strengthening our youth means strengthening our country. Therefore, we aim to enhance education and preventive measures against drug problems. This way, our young people can stay informed, steer clear of narcotic-related issues and build a strong foundation for our nation,” he said.
Pech Bolen, director-general of Westline Education Group and president of the Education Services Federation of Cambodia, stated a desire for the ministry to explore the possibility of extending such libraries to private educational institutions. This initiative aims to raise awareness among all young people and students.
“If feasible, the ministry could involve private schools by providing trainers or materials
addressing drug-related issues. It would be beneficial for all schools to incorporate a dedicated curriculum or establish similar libraries, with the ministry offering support in providing materials and training professionals,” he said.
Touch Sokhak, deputy spokesperson for the Ministry of Interior, said that during the week from December 17 to 23, authorities arrested 310 suspects in connection with 134 drug offences. He said that this nationwide outcome reflects the responsible and law-abiding operations of the ministry’s major departments.
“The successful crackdown on drug crimes is a testament to the dedicated efforts and stringent actions of the National Police, municipal and provincial police forces, inspectorates, and administrative police stations nationwide. This implementation stands as the first among the six priorities set by interior minister [Sar Sokha] since taking office,” he said.
He said that the six priority areas address drug-related issues, general criminal offences, gang-related activities, traffic concerns, human trafficking and issues occurring along the border.
According to the weekly interior ministry report, there were three significant crackdowns, two in Phnom Penh and one in Prey Veng province. In the capital, the police confiscated a total of 62.84kg of drugs, along with 357.90kg of precursor chemicals, leading to the arrest of five suspects. In Prey Veng, authorities tackled a case, seizing 1.99kg of drugs, 12.28kg of precursor chemicals and apprehending four suspects.