NCSA delivering message through technology

The National Council on Substance Abuse (NCSA) is moving full speed ahead to deliver all Drug Education programmes through the use of technology.

This will help to diversify the delivery of the organization’s mandate through the incorporation and utilisation of technology for drug prevention education and fundraising.

The COVID 19 pandemic has resulted in the closure of schools and restrictions in the number of people permitted to assemble has forced the NCSA to adjust to digital approaches to disseminating its drug prevention messaging in order to ensure maximum effectiveness and efficiencies.

It is against this backdrop that NCSA’s programme officers joined 87 other representatives from Barbados and educators from over 140 countries at Nearpod, Camp Engage – Winter edition, from February 4 – 7th 2021.

Nearpod is an award-winning presentation tool which can transform any lesson into an interactive format. With classrooms, offices and churches closed, this tool has been identified as one which will allow NCSA staff to have the “in-person” atmosphere in an online environment.

It has been adopted by many schools in Barbados as teachers seek ways to engage their students in the virtual classroom.

Over the four days, participants were introduced to the new technology and the suite of integrated software and online apps. In an effort to reinforce that experience, NCSA’s participants also engaged in an in-house session where the team made presentations using the tools, to expand efforts to develop drug education through technology.

This training will also add value as the Council seeks to maximise on this new approach to programme delivery.