KNYSNA NEWS - Learners from various primary schools in the Greater Knysna district recently created posters depicting the life of a drug addict, as well as the effects thereof.

This action was taken in recognition of International Awareness Day Against Drug Abuse (June 26).

The Knysna Alcohol and Drug Centre, in partnership with various organisations, presented the poster competition from Friday, June 24 to Monday, June 27 at the Knysna Mall.

"The competition was a huge success," said Franklin Lamini, programme coordinator of Knysna Alcohol and Drug Centre.
"This was the first awareness competition we held for learners of Knysna. The competition did not only highlight how much these youngsters have learnt through our drug awareness projects at schools, but also their knowledge of the subject. Our goal, with the support of the community, is to provide children with alternative methods and projects to curb substance abuse in the Greater Knysna district," said Marshall Laminie, director of Knysna Alcohol and Drug Centre.

Knysna Executive Mayor Georlene Wolmarans had the privilege of judging the learners’ posters. Wolmarans said at the gathering, "The United Nations declared June 26 International Drug Awareness Day. This declaration was made because it was recognised that each country in the world is faced with the challenge of fighting drug and alcohol abuse. As small a town as Knysna is, it is not exempt from the frustrations that develop from substance abuse and its harrowing consequences."

She further said, "We call on the youth of this millennium to rise again and use their co-operative power to fight alcohol and drug abuse."

Knysna Primary School was announced as the overall winner of the poster competition, while Sunridge Primary School received second place.

Learners who participated in the competition were from Plettenberg Bay, The Crags Primary School, Hornlee, Knysna, Rheenendal, Kranshoek, Sunridge, Fraaisig and Formosa primary schools.

Knysna Alcohol and Drug Centre would like to thank the Knysna SAPS, Social Development Department, various Stakeholders including its staff members and the Knysna Art Gallery.

In conclusion Wolmarans said, "Thank you to the Knysna Alcohol and Drug Centre for doing such wonderful work. You are faced with a daunting task. Thank you for doing it unreservedly despite various struggles your organisation faces - not least of all financial constraints. Your assistance has healed many families and I urge the community of Knysna to support this most important work you do."


Learners from various schools in the Greater Knysna district, who participated in Knysna Alcohol and Drug Centre’s drug awareness poster competition, set up their poster displays at the Knysna Mall on Friday, June 24.