Drug addiction among university students has emerged as a growing concern in Sri Lanka, with reports indicating that young people from state universities are increasingly being exposed to narcotics.
The issue challenges the long-held perception that drug abuse is primarily associated with underprivileged youth or people with limited educational backgrounds. Students at state universities, including those considered among the country's academically gifted, are reportedly becoming victims of drugs such as crystal methamphetamine, commonly known as “Ice”, and heroin.
Revelations made under the national anti-drug campaign “Ratama Ekatata” indicate that the problem extends beyond conventional universities. Concerns have also been raised about drug use around technological institutes and even religious establishments.
Experts have warned that the widespread acceptance of legal substances such as alcohol and tobacco can contribute to a progression towards more harmful drugs. Some users may turn to illicit substances after developing tolerance to legal substances.
The health impact of substance abuse is also described as severe. According to the reports, smoking-related illnesses are estimated to claim around 50 lives a day in Sri Lanka, while between 80 and 100 people reportedly die daily from complications directly or indirectly linked to substance and alcohol abuse.
Dr. Manoj Fernando, Dean of the Faculty of Applied Sciences at Rajarata University of Sri Lanka, said the aggressive promotion of substances through social media has contributed significantly to increasing addiction among young people.
Health professionals and those involved in national anti-drug programmes have called for stronger preventive measures, greater awareness among young people and increased opportunities for healthy recreational activities as part of efforts to address the growing crisis.
