The Ceylon Teachers’ Union (CTU) has called on the Ministry of Education, Higher Education, and Vocational Education to introduce effective programmes to prevent schoolchildren from engaging in harmful behaviours, particularly the increasing use of e-cigarettes.
CTU President Priyantha Fernando highlighted that despite the ban on e-cigarette sales in Sri Lanka, many young people are still accessing these devices through online channels.
He warned that senior students were bringing e-cigarettes into schools and recruiting younger students to act as sellers, sometimes aided by outsiders offering commissions.
“Previously, monitoring programmes helped curb such behaviour. While teachers and principals are doing their best, the ministry must introduce proper measures,” Fernando said.
The Medical and Civil Rights Professional Association of Doctors also confirmed the issue, with its President Dr. Chamal Sanjeewa noting that e-cigarette puffs are being sold inside schools for over Rs. 20 in districts including Galle, Matara, Hambantota, Kandy, Gampaha, and Kurunegala.
He said that these devices are linked to mental confusion, poor concentration, and increased irritability among students.
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