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The following is issued on behalf of the Secretariat of the Beat Drugs Fund Association:
The Beat Drugs Fund Association invites applications for a research study on Development of Voluntary School-based Drug Testing Scheme from today (June 12) until July 31. Organisations and individuals are welcome to submit proposals during this period.
The Government is committed to tackling the youth drug abuse problem. School-based drug testing can be an effective tool to deter and prevent youth drug abuse as well as facilitate early intervention of drug abusers for treatment. The research would help devise possible school-based drug testing schemes for voluntary adoption by schools, having regard to the practices in local international schools and those in overseas jurisdictions. Researchers will be required to study pertinent issues involved, such as privacy, potential stigmatization effects, methods of drug testing, and support services; study best practices; consult stakeholders including parents, social workers and teachers; conduct a pilot test in local secondary schools; and recommend possible schemes.
Detailed information including the study requirements and time-frame are set out in the research brief. The research brief is available on the website of the Narcotics Division, Security Bureau (http://www.nd.gov.hk/en/beat.htm). It can also be collected in person at the Secretariat of the Beat Drugs Fund Association (30/F, High Block) and the Hong Kong Jockey Club Drug InfoCentre (Roof Floor, Low Block) at Queensway Government Offices, 66 Queensway.
Enquiries are welcome by phone at 2867 2737 or 2867 2286; by fax at 2810 1790; or via email to (sbeon4@sb.gov.hk).
The Beat Drugs Fund was set up by the Government in 1996 with a capital base of $350 million to fund worthwhile projects that can contribute to the fight against drug abuse in Hong Kong.
Ends/Friday, June 12, 2009
Issued at HKT 20:55
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