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Elite schools hailed for checks to tackle abuse

Celine Sun

International schools that have introduced voluntary physical examinations to check for narcotics have been praised by one of the city's leaders in the fight against drugs.

'These schools really deserve our applause, as the principals and teachers have the courage to face the problem along with their students,' Action Committee against Narcotics chairman Choi Yuen-wan said.

Speaking at an anti-drugs seminar yesterday, Dr Choi said the fight to curb the rising number of young drug-abusers was a hard one to win.

Some schools had refused to introduce checks for fear of being labelled 'high-risk places for drugs', he said.

'They may seem to have protected their own reputation, but it will do harm to the students, the schools and even the whole of society in the long run.'

The students that the schools check have signed a letter of agreement.

Hong Kong International School spokesman James Manning said the school had implemented random physical examinations among all applicants before they were recruited.

'The check-up was broader than a drug test. But, of course, if we found any students taking illegal drugs, we would require him or her to seek professional treatment or guidance,' he said.

'I believe more schools in Hong Kong should adopt similar measures, which will serve as a reminder for students to keep their distance from drugs.'

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