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Astana students use theater to fight drug abuse in powerful contest

A gripping stage competition turned students into advocates against addiction. Their performances revealed harsh truths—and offered hope through prevention.

The image shows an old newspaper advertisement for the Inter-State Narcotic Association with a...
The image shows an old newspaper advertisement for the Inter-State Narcotic Association with a picture of a man and a woman on it. The text on the paper reads "Beware Young and Old People in All Walks of Life".

Astana students use theater to fight drug abuse in powerful contest

A theatrical competition aimed at drug abuse prevention recently took place at Astana's Zhashtar Palace. Organised by the city's Internal Policy Department and prosecutor's offices, the event brought together students from five Baikonur district schools. Each performance focused on raising awareness about the dangers of drugs and promoting healthy lifestyles.

Five schools—No. 8, 16, 23, 55, and 119—competed in the contest. Students from School No. 55 performed a story about two friends, where one tragically lured the other into drug use with deadly results. Meanwhile, School No. 16's team depicted a young man's journey through rehabilitation at a drug treatment clinic.

The top prize went to School No. 119 for their powerful portrayal of a student who turns to drug couriering and faces harsh consequences. Schools No. 16 and 8 also shared the leading awards. First place received 150,000 tenge, second 100,000, and third 50,000. All participants were given certificates for their involvement. This initiative is part of broader prevention efforts in the capital. Over a thousand students and schoolchildren have been reached through similar work this year. Earlier in March, a performance titled *Соңғы аялдама* was shown to around 300 Astana students under the city prosecutor's office. Another preventive meeting was held in Taraz, reinforcing the campaign's reach.

The competition aimed to teach young people about responsibility, safety, and the risks of drug abuse. Through theatre, students explored real-life consequences while encouraging healthier choices. Organisers plan to continue such events to strengthen prevention efforts across the region.

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