Fifteen Frontline Workers Certified in Universal Drug Abuse Prevention Curriculum by National Council.

Empowering Frontline Workers: St. Kitts Strengthens Substance Abuse Prevention through Universal Prevention Curriculum Certification

The National Council on Drug Abuse Prevention in St. Kitts and Nevis has achieved a significant milestone in strengthening its substance abuse prevention efforts by certifying 15 frontline workers in the Universal Prevention Curriculum (UPC) Series for Practitioners – Core Course. This comprehensive online training program, conducted from October 10 to December 23, 2024, equipped participants with the knowledge and skills necessary to implement evidence-based prevention strategies within their communities. The newly certified professionals join a growing cohort of trained individuals dedicated to tackling substance misuse across the Federation. This achievement underscores the National Council’s commitment to fostering a healthier and more resilient society through proactive and informed approaches to substance abuse prevention.

The certification ceremony, held at the NEMA Conference Room, served as a platform to recognize the dedication and hard work of the graduates. Mrs. Karimu Byron Caines, Director of the National Council on Drug Abuse Prevention, emphasized the pivotal role of the UPC program in building national capacity for effective prevention interventions. She highlighted the program’s focus on equipping participants with the tools to implement evidence-based strategies, ensuring that communities benefit from the most up-to-date and impactful approaches to substance misuse prevention. The ceremony also served as a reminder of the importance of collaborative efforts involving community leaders, educators, health professionals, and policymakers in sustaining and expanding prevention initiatives.

ACP Travis Rogers, Chairman of the National Council on Drug Abuse Prevention, echoed the importance of collaboration, emphasizing the need for a united front in addressing the complexities of substance abuse prevention. He congratulated the graduates and reiterated the Council’s steadfast support for their ongoing endeavors. The Chairman’s words underscored the recognition that effective prevention requires a multi-faceted approach involving all stakeholders, working together towards a common goal of creating healthier communities. This collaborative spirit is essential for ensuring that prevention efforts are sustainable and impactful.

Mrs. Sasha Gay McDermott, the local trainer for the UPC program, commended the graduates for their resilience and dedication throughout the demanding training period. She acknowledged the challenges they faced and praised their ability to persevere, absorb complex concepts, and demonstrate a genuine passion for positively impacting their communities. Mrs. McDermott’s remarks highlighted the transformative potential of the UPC training, emphasizing the graduates’ growth and enhanced capacity to serve as effective agents of change in their respective fields.

The impact of the UPC training was further underscored by the testimony of one of the graduates, Mrs. Tresia Daniel, who shared her personal reflections on the experience. Mrs. Daniel highlighted the significant value of the training in her professional development and its profound influence on her ability to serve her community. Her words provided a powerful testament to the practical benefits and real-world application of the knowledge and skills gained through the UPC program. The success of the program is reflected in the personal and professional growth of the graduates, empowering them to make a meaningful difference in their communities.

The certificate distribution ceremony was attended by a number of distinguished guests, including Vice Chairman Mr. Michael Morton, Rev. Thanduxolo Noketshe, Mrs. Michele dela Coudray Blake, and Chief Education Officer Mr. Francil Morris, all of whom extended their congratulations to the graduates. Their presence highlighted the broad support for the National Council’s initiatives and the recognition of the importance of investing in prevention efforts. The ceremony also provided an opportunity to acknowledge the contributions of the Inter-American Drug Abuse Control Commission within the Organization of American States and the Department of State of the United States of America for their support in organizing, funding, and providing technical assistance for the certification program. This international collaboration underscores the global nature of the fight against substance abuse and the importance of shared resources and expertise in achieving common goals. The National Council on Drug Abuse Prevention’s efforts align with global strategies to reduce substance misuse, abuse, and trafficking, reinforcing the importance of continued cooperation and investment in prevention strategies.

This comprehensive effort by the National Council on Drug Abuse Prevention demonstrates a proactive approach to tackling substance abuse within St. Kitts and Nevis. By investing in the training and development of frontline workers, the Council is building a strong foundation for effective prevention strategies that will benefit communities across the Federation. The certification of these dedicated professionals marks a significant step forward in the ongoing fight against substance misuse and underscores the nation’s commitment to fostering a healthier and more resilient society. The collaboration, dedication, and comprehensive training exemplified by the UPC program demonstrate a commitment to building a brighter future for St. Kitts and Nevis.