Drug Abuse Prevention and Intervention Policy
Purpose & Scope
Dhruv Global School (DGS) is committed to ensuring a safe, healthy, and supportive learning environment for all students, staff, and parents. In line with DGS’s core values of respect, responsibility, integrity, and wellbeing, and adhering to the UAE Federal Law by Decree No. 30 of 2021 on Combating Narcotics and Psychotropic Substances, this policy aims to prevent, educate, and respond effectively to substance misuse. The policy aligns with the Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA) framework and the UAE Ministry of Education’s guidelines on drug abuse prevention.
Definitions
Substance misuse includes the use, possession, distribution, or being under the influence of illegal drugs, misused prescription medications, tobacco, vaping devices, alcohol, or inhalants on school premises or during school activities. Stakeholders include students, parents, staff, the school counsellor, leadership, and relevant external agencies.
Guiding Principles & Values
- Prevention First – prioritizing awareness and early intervention.
- Whole-School Approach – involving students, parents, staff, and community agencies.
- Respect & Confidentiality – safeguarding dignity while ensuring safety.
- Legal Compliance – following UAE Federal Law and KHDA regulations.
- Parental Partnership – engaging families in prevention and support.
- Continuous Improvement – regular review and alignment with new KHDA guidelines.
Roles and Responsibilities
Leadership: Ensure implementation, training, and review of this policy.
Counsellor: Conduct awareness sessions, provide support, identify at-risk students, and maintain confidentiality.
Teachers & Staff: Recognize signs, report concerns, and uphold school values.
Students: Follow the policy, participate in awareness programs, and seek help needed.
Parents: Attend workshops, monitor children’s wellbeing, and partner with the school.
External Agencies: Support awareness, referral, and rehabilitation services.
Awareness, Education & Prevention
DGS will conduct regular awareness sessions for students, parents, and staff. Programs include classroom lessons, workshops, assemblies, and campaigns such as the annual Substance Awareness Week.
Guest speakers from Dubai Police, health authorities, and KHDA will enhance community awareness.
Identification, Referral & Support
Early identification is done through teacher observations, student referrals, or parent communication.
The counsellor meets with the concerned student confidentially, assesses risk, and creates a support plan.
If needed, external referral for medical or rehabilitation support is made while keeping parents informed.
Disciplinary Measures
DGS maintains a zero-tolerance policy for bringing, using, or distributing illegal substances on campus or during school events.
Consequences may include suspension, expulsion, and reporting to UAE authorities. However, emphasis remains on rehabilitation and reintegration under counselling supervision.
Curriculum & Environment Support
Drug education is integrated into the Science, Health, and PSHE curriculum. School displays, newsletters, and digital media reinforce healthy lifestyle messages. The environment promotes wellness and prohibits smoking or vaping on school grounds.
Monitoring & Review
The counsellor and leadership team maintain logs of all awareness activities and interventions.
An annual report summarizing actions, feedback, and next steps will be presented to the school management.
The policy will be reviewed annually or upon regulatory updates by KHDA or UAE authorities.
Legal & Regulatory Alignment
This policy aligns with:
- UAE Federal Law by Decree No. 30 of 2021 on Combating Narcotics and
Psychotropic Substances. - KHDA’s Wellbeing Framework and School Inspection Guidelines.
- UAE Ministry of Education’s 2025 Drug Prevention Compliance Guide.
- Dubai Health Authority (DHA) school clinic standards on controlled substances.
Created By: Dr. Deepika Singh
Approved by: Principal, Dhruv Global School
Month: October 2025