Astana's new youth movement fights drug addiction through peer education

Astana is launching a new youth movement as part of the Esirtkisiz Elorda anti-drug project. The initiative will focus on promoting healthy lifestyles and tackling drug addiction among university students. Organisers aim to build a lasting platform for prevention within the student community. The movement will bring together students from universities across Astana. Participants will elect a chairperson to guide their activities and shape future campaigns.

Before taking on leadership roles, members will complete training. This includes seminars, workshops, and sessions with psychologists and addiction specialists. The goal is to equip them with the knowledge needed to support their peers. A key feature of the project is its reliance on the 'peer-to-peer education' model. Trained students will organise their own prevention events, spreading awareness directly among fellow classmates. The approach encourages active involvement rather than passive learning. Beyond individual events, the movement seeks to foster a broader culture of responsible decision-making. By creating an engaged student network, organisers hope to reduce drug-related risks through collective action.

The Esirtkisiz Elorda project will train students to lead prevention efforts themselves. Through workshops, peer education, and community-building, the movement aims to establish a long-term framework for drug awareness. The first student-led events are expected to begin after the training phase completes.