The Bhutanese Leading the way.
In response to the alarming rise in substance abuse cases, especially among the youth, Bhutan has taken significant steps to address this pressuring issue.
As of December 2023, a total of 3,472 individuals were arrested for substance abuse, with 1,815 falling under the age category of 24. While numbers are concerning, most of the individuals are referred for treatment assessment or prison-based treatment.
By March 2024, the Royal Bhutan Police (RBP) had already arrested 628 individuals in drug-related cases, indicating a continued need for intervention.
The National Drug Task Force (NDTF) has directed the Ministry of Education and Skills Development (MoESD) to expedite the establishment of a special school in Yonphula, Trashigang.
The government’s allocation of approximately Nu 538 million in 2023 towards addressing drug-related cases highlights the severity of the situation.
During a recent press session, the Prime Minister highlighted the importance of raising awareness among students and proposed the introduction of mandatory drug tests in schools. This measure aims to address substance-related problems among youths promptly to prevent further drug related cases.
The establishment of a specialized school for students struggling with substance use marks a crucial point in Bhutan’s battle against addiction. Moreover, rising drug cases and only 7 treatment centers in Bhutan are concerning thus, the establishment of a special school in Yonphula could also help to decongest the Chamgang jail.
His Majesty The King’s Address during the 115th National Day also highlights the seriousness of the situation which called for a united effort to tackle substance abuse effectively.
NDTF advocates for a unified approach, focusing on mental health screening rather than immediate drug testing. This initiative aims to categorize students based on various factors, including depression, anxiety disorders, adverse childhood experiences, and substance abuse.
Despite challenges in finalizing details and implementing the specialized school, the government’s commitment and the extensive approach adopted by NDTF indicates an encouraging step towards safeguarding society and ensuring a brighter future.
Led by the Prime Minister and supported by key governmental figures, NDTF’s directive to MoESD to establish a special school also represents a bold response to the rising issues of substance abuse.
While the establishment of a specialized school for students struggling with substance use marks Bhutan’s battle against addiction, it also raises ethical concerns regarding segregation and stigmatization.
Placing all students facing drug-related challenges in one institution may incidentally reinforce stereotypes and impede their integration into mainstream education and society. Therefore, creating a school dedicated to addressing substance abuse among students necessitates a careful approach to ensure an environment that is both supportive and inclusive.
Here a official said the school will not keep the students permanently but it will be for a certain while as they recover and then they will be sent to other schools and so stigmatization will not happen.
