REPORT ON THE INVESTIGATION INTO THE POSSIBILITY OF BUILDING A
DRUG REHABILITATION CENTRE IN ONE OF THE UNIVERSITY CAMPUSES
1. TERMS OF REFERENCE
On 5 April 2024, Mr Dube, the Chairperson of the Student Support Committee,
formally requested an investigation to be conducted by Ms. H. Engelbrecht, the
Secretary of the Department of Student Support at the University of Malusi. The
purpose of this investigation was to explore the feasibility of establishing a
rehabilitation centre on one of the University campuses. A report and
subsequent recommendations was to be submitted by 30 May 2024.
2. PROCEDURES
2.1.
A demographic survey was conducted among the students of the
University of Malusi in order to determine the prevalence of substance
abuse within the student population.
2.2.
Focus groups were conducted at each of the neighbouring high
schools to evaluate each individual’s attitude towards substance abuse
and to identify the specific benefits that the drug rehabilitation centre
could provide.
2.3.
Interviews were held with the family members of students from the
University and neighbouring schools to gauge their level of support for
the construction of the rehabilitation centre and to evaluate the
potential benefits the centre could provide.
2.4.
A financial report detailing the fees associated with the construction of
the rehabilitation centre was requested from Mr. Dube,
the
Chairperson of the Student Support Committee.
3. FINDINGS
3.1.
55% of the University students that had responded via the online
forum are currently experiencing substance abuse issues. 10% of
respondents reported knowing friends or family members who are
willing to seek treatment. The students expressed a strong belief that a
dedicated centre would offer convenient access to support for those
struggling with substance abuse.
3.2.
Opinions varied based on each individuals personality and beliefs.
More than half of the students that was present believed that the
rehabilitation centre could not only provide a supportive environment
for students in recovery, but also foster a sense of community and
understanding.
3.3.
Several of the student's family members have expressed their
concerns pertaining to the potential impact on the campus security as
well as the surrounding community. Some argued that having a
rehabilitation centre on the University campus could further stigmatize
students struggling with addiction.
3.4.
The financial report submitted by Mr. Dube indicates that the required
fees for the construction of the rehabilitation centre were successfully
raised through various fund-raising events.
4. CONCLUSIONS
4.1.
Based on the information compiled as per the online forum as well as
the focus groups, it is evident that the rehabilitation centre has the
potential to strive towards the goal of uniting a community and
providing support for individuals struggling with substance abuse.
4.2.
It is evident that the responses provided by the family members of the
students indicate that there are some concerns regarding the
rehabilitation centre.
4.3.
The financial report indicated that the rehabilitation centre can be
constructed without imposing a financial burden on the University.
Sufficient funds have been raised to cover the costs of construction
and to employ the necessary staff members to provide care and
assistance to the patients.
5. RECOMMENDATIONS
5.1.
It is recommended that the rehabilitation centre proceed with its
construction plans. In order to provide necessary education on
substance abuse, it is advised that the centre involve students from
the University and neighbouring high schools as volunteers.
5.2.
It is recommended to reassure the family members of the students that
the centre will not stigmatize individuals in need of help. It is also
recommended to implement additional security measures.
5.3.
It is recommended that various social media platforms become
involved in the construction of the rehabilitation centre to bring
attention to the project and to ensure that the community receives
timely updates regarding construction progress.
H ENGELBRECHT
Secretary of the Department of Student Support
17 April 2024
DECLARATION
Name and student number: Hester Engelbrecht - 22025952
Assignment topic: Investigative report
I declare that this assignment is my original work. Where secondary material has been
used (either from a printed source or from the internet), this has been carefully
acknowledged and reference in accordance with departmental requirements. I understand
what plagiarism is and am aware of the department’s policy in this regard. I have not
allowed anyone else to borrow or copy my work.
Signature: Hester Engelbrecht
Date: 17 April 2024