Libya – Libyan academic Faraj al-Magrisi has warned of a growing drug-abuse trend among young people, saying the threat goes beyond individual health to jeopardise students’ futures and the performance of the national workforce.
Studies point to higher usage rates
Speaking to Sputnik, al-Magrisi said recent research shows a marked rise in drug consumption among youth, attributing the surge to social and psychological pressures that leave many young Libyans vulnerable.
Problem reaches beyond the classroom
The phenomenon is not confined to students, he added: some employees in both public and private sectors are also suspected of using drugs, with knock-on effects on behaviour and job performance.
Most-at-risk age group: 15–35
Al-Magrisi identified the 15-to-35 bracket—which spans secondary-school pupils, university students and young workers—as the most exposed. Warning signs include poor focus, declining academic or professional output, absenteeism, tardiness, procrastination, irritability and strained relations with peers or supervisors.
Reputational damage and lost jobs
He cautioned that users can drag colleagues into similar habits and tarnish overall workplace culture. Reputation now matters in hiring, he said, noting that many employers seek behavioural references from universities and professors—making drug use a direct barrier to employment.
Productivity at stake
Drug abuse also erodes productivity, fuels absenteeism, stokes workplace disputes and raises accident rates, al-Magrisi added.
Call for awareness and routine testing
He urged schools and employers to run structured anti-drug awareness programmes and strengthen the role of psychological counsellors. Regular drug testing for students and staff—especially at hiring stages—is vital, he said, while families remain the first line of defence in guiding children away from addiction.
