Faye Abad

POLICY ON DRUGS IN THE UNIVERSITY

Drugs addiction is a disease. The drug addict is a sick person. The drug pusher is most probably also a user and sells drugs to support the addiction. Like other person, drug addicts need treatment.

This is the premise of the University’s policy on the issue of drugs in the community. The University will help the students and staff who voluntarily come forward to seek assistance on drug addiction by referring them to appropriate treatment centers.

· It has launched mechanisms to make it easier for drug addicts on campus to seek help.

· Students and permanent staff will be given official leave of up to a year to undergo treatment.

· Those who sought rehabilitation can resume their studies / work upon certification by the rehabilitation center that they have, completed the prescribed course of treatment.

· They must also agree to participate in the post-treatment counseling and support group session provided by the center.

The University will extend support to those in the community affected by the disease of drug addiction. But it also has the responsibility to protect the community from the disease. It will, therefore, introduce the following steps:

· Drug testing as part of the employment process for faculty and staff.

· Periodic random testing for students and staff.

But the University will not tolerate individuals who attempt to introduce drugs into the community. Those found guilty of this offense, will be separated from the University by expulsion or termination of employment. National laws covering these offenses will also be applied.

Drug addiction is one of the biggest threats that the University and the country are facing. Meeting this threat will require the cooperation of the entire University community. We are counting on everyone’s support.