By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, July 30: More than 500 individuals benefitted from a four-day awareness workshop titled ‘Protection from and Prevention of Drugs and Alcohol–The Laws’, organised by SPARK in response to the growing threat of substance abuse in the region.
Held across Mawlong village, Mawlynrei village, Bara Bazaar slum and involving students from St. Agnes School as well as interns from St. Anthony’s College, St. Mary’s College, Shillong College and Women’s College, the workshop was supported by the Office of the District Social Welfare, East Khasi Hills District, Meghalaya.
The initiative created space for deep and honest dialogue between expert resource persons and community members. Painful personal testimonies—particularly from parents of drug users—highlighted the emotional and social toll of substance abuse, as well as the desperate need for stronger intervention by authorities.
“Participants united in a collective plea for more effective interventions from law enforcement and relevant authorities. The environment created during the sessions encouraged several individuals to speak out about their experiences, with many victims expressing a renewed willingness to seek help. A significant number of attendees requested access to rehabilitation services, signaling hope and a desire for a fresh start,” the statement said.