Collaborating Organizations: AIDS Foundation of Lanka, Alcohol and Drug Information Centre (ADIC)
Participants: Approximately 350 students from grades 8, 9, and 10
Introduction:
The awareness program held at St. Bridget’s Convent was a collaborative effort between the AIDS Foundation of
Lanka and the Alcohol and Drug Information Centre (ADIC), aimed at educating students on critical issues related
to health, relationships, and substance abuse. The program consisted of two sessions, each addressing different
aspects of adolescent well-being.
Session 1: Dr. Sujatha Samarakoon
Dr. Sujatha Samarakoon led the first session, covering a wide range of topics essential for adolescent health and
empowerment. Key points discussed included:
- Protecting Oneself from Unwanted Relationships: Educating students on the importance of setting boundaries
and recognizing signs of unhealthy relationships. - Limiting Screen Time: Highlighting the negative impacts of excessive screen time on mental and physical health,
and advocating for a balanced approach to technology use. - Addressing Teenage Pregnancy: Providing insights into the challenges and consequences of early parenthood,
emphasizing the importance of education and contraception. - Promoting Education Equality: Advocating for support and collaboration between privileged and rural schools to
ensure equal access to resources and opportunities. - Understanding HIV Transmission : Dispelling myths and providing accurate information on how HIV is
transmitted, along with promoting the importance of regular testing and awareness.
Session 2: ADIC Panel Discussion
The second session featured a pan discussion led by three young ladies from ADIC, including Sheril Manoharan-
Visvakula, Shafeeka Junus, and Nidarshana Selladurai. The discussion focused on the dangers of alcohol and
tobacco consumption among youth, along with the tactics employed by the industry to target adolescents. Key
points from the discussion included:
- Zero Tolerance for Alcohol and Tobacco: Emphasizing the WHO’s recommendation of zero-level consumption
for alcohol and tobacco among adolescents. - Targeting Youth and Girls: Explaining why the alcohol and tobacco industries heavily target youth, particularly
girls, due to their high population and comparatively low consumption rates. - Media Influence and Marketing Tactics: Discussing how the industry utilizes various forms of media, including
superhero films and TV serials, to promote their products and influence consumer behavior. - Empowering Youth to Resist Peer Pressure: Providing strategies and resources for students to resist peer pressure
and make informed decisions regarding substance use.
In addition to addressing substance abuse, the program also highlighted the importance of promoting healthy, non-
addictive alternatives for adolescents. Suggestions included engaging in sports, hobbies, and creative activities as
positive outlets for stress relief and socialization.
The awareness program at St. Bridget’s Convent served as a platform for empowering students with knowledge and
resources to make informed decisions about their health and well-being. By addressing critical issues such as
relationships, HIV awareness, and substance abuse, the program aimed to equip students with the skills and
confidence to navigate the challenges of adolescence successfully. Through continued education and community
support, we can strive towards a healthier and more empowered generation of youth.
