site.btaJust Say No Anti-Drug Campaign Launched

An anti-drug campaign, mottoed "Just Say No", was launched here on Tuesday by caretaker education and Science Minister Galin Tsokov and popular actors and singers.

Three films based on the stories of eleventh graders and featuring favourite Bulgarian actors were produced as part of the campaign. The stories are very inspiring as they show the difficulties which can push young people towards addiction, as well as their full recovery and desire to return to their loved ones, to fulfil their potential and be happy.

Tsokov said 55 eleventh grade students were involved in writing the stories, three of which were filmed: "This is our goal - to show the truth and the detrimental effect of drugs in a way that will reach the hearts of both students and parents, so that they can see the consequences are serious and sometimes lifelong. It takes a lot of effort, strength and support to deal with them and get the children back into life."

The point is to distribute the filmed stories in all schools where high school students will discuss them with the participation of psychologists, pedagogical counsellors, teachers and parents, the Education Minister said.

More than 1,400 psychologists have been working with Bulgarian children and students, including those with substance abuse problems. There are also over 900 pedagogical counsellors.

"Being the mother of two girls, I want to tell you not to leave your children in the care of the education system and outside influences alone. As parents, you should monitor them yourself," said singer Nina Nikolina.