MUN’s School of Pharmacy is hoping to fill what it calls “critical gaps” in drug education for youth with a new strategy.

The Drug Education Centre on Youth Decision Empowerment, or DECYDE, was created by the Cannabis Health Evaluation and Research Partnership (CHERP) at MUN.

It was formed in response to research that found limited or no education on drugs and cannabis in the curriculum.

The program is aimed at youth in Grades 4-12, and their teachers and parents, providing information to help make safe and informed choices.

Grace Kelly, a Grade 10 student and co-chair of the youth advisory panel, took in the strategy’s launch and symposium in St. John’s on Wednesday.

The 16-year-old stressed the importance of being comfortable in one’s surroundings when opening up on the topic.

She says many people are hesitant to talk openly about their experiences, particularly around police officers, for fear of getting into trouble. Kelly believes the strategy provides that safer space and environment to foster better communication, openness and sharing of information.

The DECYDE strategy is designed to be interactive and non-judgmental, with in-school curriculum, teacher resources and training, education through social media, plus parent education.

A public website is also being created to store materials so content is available at all levels.